Hitech Photography Articles

20 Photography Tricks You Should Know Before Taking a Photo

photography tricks

Not pleased with the quality of your photos?

That's actually a good thing...

If you're unhappy with your images, that usually means that you've got the drive to figure out what it is you don't like, what you might be doing wrong, and to learn photography techniques that will help you rectify the situation.

And learning photography tips and tricks is easier today than ever before, so that's a definite bonus!

In the video above, Bright Side offers up 20 simple, yet effective photography tricks that will help you improve the quality of your photos.

Some of the tips are so easy you'll wonder why you never thought to do them.

Others are a little more complex, but at the end of the day, you can implement any of these photography tips into your workflow with ease.

Here's a few of my favorite tips from the video...

Editor's Tip: Your best photos deserve to be seen, not just stay on your memory card. See what your photos look like as fine art.

Basic Photography Tricks: Pay Attention and Declutter

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I know it sounds like a no-brainer to pay attention when you're taking a photo, but believe me when I say that a lot of photographers don't give their images enough attention before they take the shot.

This usually manifests with something weird or distracting in the background, like a tree branch that looks like it's impaled a person's head or a trash can or some other unsightly object lingering behind the subject (like the man in the white shirt in the background of the photo above).

But by taking five seconds to check the background, look at the corners of the shot, and fine-tune the composition, you'll have much more success.

photography tips

It's also smart to declutter the background while you're at it...

By decluttering, I mean that the more stuff that's going on in the background, the more your primary subject has to compete for the viewer's attention, and that's a bad thing.

Instead, whether you're taking a portrait, creating a landscape photo, or something in between, strive to keep the background as clean and simple as possible.

Doing so will help your primary subject stand out, and the stronger the subject, the more appealing the photo will be for viewers.

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Stabilize Your Camera

photography tips and tricks

This is another photography trick that sounds like a no-brainer, but for whatever reason gets forgotten by some beginners.

If you don't stabilize your camera in some way, you run the risk of having blurry photos. That's especially true if you're shooting at night.

Stabilizing your camera doesn't necessarily mean to have a tripod (though that's a great idea!), either.

Even if you hold your camera correctly, you'll give it more stability.

That is, don't hold your camera out at arm's length like everyone does when they take a photo with their smartphone. Don't take photos one-handed, either!

photography techniques

Instead, tuck your elbows into your chest and lock your wrists in place to act as support for the camera.

Additionally, if you use a DSLR or mirrorless camera, place your left hand under the body of the camera as shown above (not on the side of the lens as some people do).

Doing so will give your camera further stability as you hold the camera's grip in your other hand.

And unless you're taking a very low-angle or high-angle shot, opt for using the viewfinder on your camera rather than using the LCD on the back of the camera body.

This gives you yet another touch point that will help keep your camera as stable as possible.

Editor's Tip: Not sure what lens you should buy? Learn why a 50mm lens is a must-have for any photographer.

Use Filters

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One of the best ways that you can improve your photography is by using lens filters to enhance your images.

Sure, you can edit photos in Photoshop, Lightroom, and other post-processing programs, but as powerful as those tools are, they still can't match the quality of results that you get with polarizing filters, neutral density filters, and graduated neutral density filters.

That's especially true if you invest in top-quality filters that are precision-made for the best results, like those from Formatt-Hitech.

neutral density filter

Just consider all the ways that filters can help you take better photos:

  • Use a polarizing filter to increase contrast in the sky, reduce glare off non-metallic surfaces, and reduce atmospheric haze.
  • Use a graduated neutral density filter (like the one shown above) to even out the exposure level of a scene by darkening the bright sky.
  • Use a neutral density filter to minimize the amount of light entering the lens, allowing you to slow down the shutter for gorgeously blurred movement of clouds and water.

In other words, by taking the time to use filters in the field, you can save tons of time trying to recreate the same effects in post-processing.

And when you use Formatt-Hitech filters, you know that you get something that's crafted with the utmost precision so that you get top-notch results.

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Be Patient

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If you ask me, this is one of the most difficult things to do as a photographer.

In my case, I'm naturally impatient, so sometimes I rush through my shots. That's definitely not a good thing.

Not only does being impatient make mistakes more likely to occur, but it also gives me less time to focus on things like the lighting, composition, framing, and so forth.

Instead, it's best to approach photography with the mindset of getting perhaps just one or two great shots each time you go out to shoot.

With that frame of mind, you'll likely spend more time concentrating on what you're doing for each shot rather than firing away at everything that you see.

Again, this is a simple photography trick, but it can have a hugely positive impact on your photos.

Don't forget to check out the complete video above for even more great photography tips and tricks!

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3 Beginner Smartphone Photography Tips

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For quite a few years now, smartphones have essentially played the role of introductory camera, in the process, killing off a good chunk of the point-and-shoot market.

That means that more people than ever are using their phones as their primary camera.

That also means that it's more important than ever to understand how to use your smartphone camera to get the best possible pictures.

Here's a few critical smartphone photography tips to help you on your way.

Try Landscape Orientation

Because phones are taller than they are wide, it's simply easier to hold them in vertical orientation.

That means that a lot of beginner smartphone photographers neglect the landscape format that's so pleasing to so many subjects, particularly landscapes.

Beyond that, viewing images on a computer screen or a TV is a better experience if the image was taken in landscape format.

Otherwise, you lose about 40 percent of the image area when you shoot in vertical format, and when you view it on a widescreen, you get those ugly black bars on either side of the shot.

So, a good rule of thumb is to default the phone's position to the horizontal.

Only when you're taking photos of something tall - like a waterfall, a building, a tree, and the like - or a full body portrait, should you keep your phone in vertical format.

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Get Geared Up

Though smartphones are certainly equipped with better cameras today than ever before, just like traditional cameras, you can still help your phone take better images by adding essential gear.

For me, there are two add-ons that are must-haves for smartphone photographers: a lens and a tripod.

Smartphone Lenses

With regard to lenses, you can change the field of view of your phone's lens to accommodate anything from wide-angle to macro and even to fisheye.

That, in turn, gives you many more creative possibilities for generating unique images with your phone. 

But not all smartphone lenses are made equally...

I prefer lenses like the one shown above by Kenko.

Why?

For starters, it clips onto my phone, so it's incredibly easy to use.

Just clip it on, and you're ready to go! No messing around with weird attachments or complicated cases.

Secondly, it's made from fine-processed glass that offers the utmost in image quality.

In other words, I get clear, sharp images with this lens with excellent colors and contrast.

I also like the variety of clip-on lenses that Kenko offers.

The macro/wide-angle lens offers a .65x wide-angle view that's ideal for getting photos of large landscapes. You can also use it to photograph large groups of people with a 120-degree field of view.

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If you need an ever wider angle of view, try a .4x super wide-angle lens.

With a 165-degree field of view, this lens is perfectly suited for capturing all the scenery and drama of a landscape. You can even get up close to a subject, but still incorporate its surroundings, as seen in the image above.

You can also try a 180-degree fisheye lens if you want to create images that have an ultra-unique look to them.

The point is that your smartphone has a decent camera with a decent lens, but with a set of add-on lenses, you can expand the camera's capabilities and pursue more creative images.

What's not to like about that?

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Using a Tripod With a Smartphone

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It might sound strange to use a tripod with your smartphone, but trust me when I say that it can make all the difference in the world.

One of the biggest enemies to the quality of a photo - whether you take it with a smartphone or a more traditional camera - is blurriness due to camera shake.

Naturally, one of the best ways to minimize camera shake and maximize the sharpness of your images is to use a tripod.

Of course, you don't want to lug around a giant tripod if you're shooting with your mobile phone, so getting something like the Vanguard VS-82 (shown above) is a good bet.

This little guy weighs less than a pound, and folded up, it can fit in a purse or small bag, or even your pocket.

It's got a two-way pan head that swivels 360-degrees, and it's non-slip rubber feet ensure it's got a good grip no matter if it's on a perfectly flat table or an angled surface.

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If you need something that's a little larger, the Vanguard Espod CX-1 (shown above) is an ideal choice.

It weighs a little more than the VS-82 (by about a half pound), but with three-section legs, it offers more height (up to nearly 23-inches).

Like the VS-82, the Espod CX-1 has a two-way pan head with 360-degree movement and anti-slip rubber feet for stability.

It folds down to less than 11.5-inches, so it won't exactly fit in your pocket.

However, it's still ultra-portable and an excellent solution for mobile photographers.

All you need is to get a tripod adapter for your specific phone, and you'll be good to go!

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Take a TON of Photos

A great way to improve your mobile photography skills is to actually take a lot of photos.

And I mean a lot of photos. There's no reason not too!

The more photos you take, the more you will develop your creative eye.

Additionally, the more photos you take, the better you'll be able to recognize features like good lighting that will only improve your photos.

What's more, your phone probably has a good deal of storage, and it's not like it's hard to swipe through your photos and delete the ones that didn't quite turn out.

You have your phone with you all the time anyway, right? Why not capitalize on every opportunity you can to improve your photography?

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That's just the tip of the iceberg regarding smartphone photography tips.

For more insights into how you can improve your mobile photography, check out the video above by Serge Ramelli.



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3 Common Landscape Photography Mistakes and What You Can Do to Fix Them

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Let's face it - landscape photography is hard.

That doesn't mean that it's impossible to get a great shot, but not every landscape you seek to photograph will immediately translate well into image form.

That means you need a few tricks up your sleeve to give yourself the best chance of getting a winning shot.

Here's three basic landscape photography mistakes, and ways that you can avoid them.

Mistake #1: Including an Ugly Sky

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The real estate in your landscape photos is far too precious to dedicate to features that aren't interesting.

An ugly sky is one such uninteresting feature you need to avoid.

Doing so is easy, too...

Just shift the horizon upward in the shot, as shown above.

Doing so eliminates the colorless, cloudless sky and dedicates more of the shot to the interesting shapes, shadows, and textures in the foreground.

The result is a much more interesting (and successful) photo!

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Mistake #2: Bright Sky, Dark Landscape

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One of the most difficult problems landscape photographers face is when there is a wide dynamic range in the scene. That is, there's bright highlights in the sky and dark shadows in the landscape.

Even high-end cameras will struggle to get everything from very bright to very dark well-exposed. That's where a graduated neutral density filter comes in.

These filters are darker on the top and lighter on the bottom, that way they darken the bright sky without impacting the landscape below.

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As a result, a graduated neutral density filter enables you to get a well-exposed image throughout.

This is the case whether there's a definite horizon or not...

If there's a clear horizon, like in the image above, you can use a hard-edge graduated neutral density filter, which abruptly changes from dark to light.

If there's not a definite horizon, you can use a soft-edge graduated neutral density filter, which gradually shifts from dark to light.

Firecrest ND Grad Filters 4

Regardless of which type of graduated neutral density filter you use, quality matters.

Just like you won't get the best results with a cheap, poorly-built lens, you won't get the best results with a cheap, poorly-built filter.

Formatt-Hitech is my go-to filter company because they use a rare earth metal coating that renders hyper neutral photos.

Firecrest ND Grad Filters

Made of glass rather than resin, these filters are tough, scratch resistant, and provide neutral results across all spectrums of light.

In other words, if you use one of these filters, there's no need to spend hours in post-processing trying to equalize the dynamic range.

Instead, you can take care of bright skies and dark landscapes right there in-camera in a matter of moments.

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Mistake #3: Crooked Horizons

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It's probably the simplest mistake on this list, yet crooked horizons can have a profoundly negative impact on the quality of your landscape photos.

Granted, not all landscapes will have a visible horizon, but if they do, you best ensure that they are perfectly level.

There's tons of ways to do that, too.

Many cameras have an electronic level that you can use. If not, you can simply turn on the Rule of Thirds grid in Live View, and use one of the horizontal grid lines as a guide for getting the horizon stick-straight.

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Another option is to use a bubble level. Many tripods have built-in levels, and if not, you can get one that slides into your camera's hot-shoe mount.

If all else fails, you can always use a program like Photoshop to correct a wonky horizon in post-processing.

The point is that there are simply too many ways to correct for this mistake, so there's absolutely no excuse for putting a photo out there with a crooked horizon!

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For more insights into common landscape photography mistakes and what you can do to avoid them, be sure to check out the video above.

In it, professional photographer Benjamin Jaworskyj gives his best advice for getting top-notch landscape photos.



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3 Essential Lenses for Landscape Photography

lenses for landscape photography

The great thing about being a landscape photographer these days is that there are simply so many lenses that you can use to take great photos.

And while all that selection is nice, picking between them can be a tough task...Thankfully, Nigel Danson is to the rescue with his three favorite landscape photography lenses.

While you might not be able to purchase all three lenses, you can bet that any one of them will be well-suited to landscape photography.

Have a look at his side-by-side-by-side comparison above, and for more details about each, check out the quick review below.

Editor's Tip: Need a good prime lens for your Nikon camera? Don't buy a thing until you've investigated the top prime lenses for Nikon.

Best Landscape Lens: 16-35mm f/4G ED VR II

nikon 16 35mm

On the wide-angle end, the 16-35mm f/4G ED VR II from Nikon is an excellent choice for a Nikon shooter's landscape photography kit.

Though the f/4 aperture isn't particularly wide, a massive aperture opening isn't needed for shooting typical daytime photos of landscapes.

This lens is outfitted with Nikon's vibration reduction technology, so you can more confidently hand hold the camera without as much worry about camera shake.

That feature comes in handy when you need to work quickly and don't have time to set up a tripod for each and every shot.

This lens's performance is outstanding as well.

Its optical design includes two extra-low dispersion elements and three aspherical elements which give you improved image quality due to reduced aberrations and distortion.

Not only does that improve sharpness, but combined with a nano crystal coating, this lens also has reduced flare and ghosting, improved color accuracy, and better contrast as well.

The wide-angle range of 16-35mm is also perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes in greater totality.

For more details on this lens, consult the video above by Nikon Europe.

Must-Have Landscape Lens: Sigma 50mm f/1.4 ART

sigma 50mm f.1.4 art

Sigma has come a long way in recent years and has quickly become a fantastic lensmaker, particularly when it comes to their ART line of lenses.

The 50mm f/1.4 ART lens by Sigma is a fantastic choice for landscape photography for a number of reasons.

First, this lens is lightning-fast with a f/1.4 aperture that allows you to get clean shots at dawn, dusk, and even in the middle of the night thanks to all the light that the f/1.4 aperture can collect.

Second, this lens is supremely sharp from corner to corner. There is little in the way of distortion or chromatic aberration, either.

The 50mm focal length on a full frame camera offers a beautiful representation of the landscape in standard view. On an APS-C camera, the effective focal length jumps into short telephoto territory, so you can more effectively capture distant elements or create more intimate landscapes.

Either way, this is one heck of a lens that offers top-notch performance. It's available for Canon and Sony cameras as well. It's on the pricey side, but if you buy pre-owned, you can find great deals that allow you to stretch your budget a little further.

Get more details on this lens by viewing the video above by DigitalRev TV.

Editor's Tip: In the market for a new camera? Learn why upgrading your lens is a better choice.

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8  

nikon 70 200mm f2.8

When you consider the best lenses for landscape photography, you have to include a telephoto lens in the bunch.

The Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 gives you the extra-long focal length needed to take photos of very distant subjects and wildlife.

But this lens also has a large f/2.8 maximum aperture, which allows it to collect more light and gives you more possibilities for when you take photos.

Granted, it's not going to compete with the aforementioned Sigma 50mm f/1.4 in a low-light shooting competition, but f/2.8 is nothing to thumb your nose at!

What's more, this variation of this lens is smaller and lighter weight than its predecessor, so even though it's a big lens, you don't feel like you're bogged down by it.

Its performance is excellent, too.

The autofocus performs well in situations in which you need to fire off quick shots, and with Nikon's Vibration Reduction, you can shoot handheld in a vast majority of situations without worrying as much about camera shake.

It's a sharp lens as well, particularly in the center of the frame. There is some fall off to the sides, but that's to be expected. It's nothing that should deter you from thinking about buying this lens! Learn more about this lens in the video above by LensProToGo.

No matter which of these Nikon landscape lenses you buy, it'll be a great addition to your kit.

And even if they're prohibitively expensive brand new, remember that you can find great deals on pre-owned lenses, so before you commit to buying a new lens, see if you can find a quality used one instead!

A Must-Have Lens Accessory: A Good Filter Kit

 

You can shop for the best landscape photography lenses, but even if you buy good glass, you should take it a step further to maximize the quality of the images that your lenses can capture.

You can do that with a good filter kit.

Like lenses, filter kits - the good ones, anyway - can be pricey, but they're worth it.

And for my money, it doesn't get much better than the Colby Brown Signature Edition Landscape Photography Filter Kit by Formatt-Hitech.

 

I know that Photoshop and Lightroom can do amazing things, but when it comes to achieving the look of a good ND filter, grad ND, or polarizer, using the actual thing is still a much better option.

There's a lot of reasons for that - the high-quality construction among them - but perhaps more importantly, this kit has everything you need to rock out awesome landscape photos:

  • A Firecrest UltraSlim Polarizing Filter, which cuts down glare, reduces haze, and improves contrast in the sky.
  • A Firecrest 6-Stop Neutral Density Filter for creating gorgeous daytime long exposures that accentuate the movement of clouds and water.
  • A Firecrest 2-Stop Soft Edge Graduated Neutral Density Filter for darkening bright skies and evening out the dynamic range between the sky and the landscape.
  • A Firecrest 2-Stop Reverse Graduated Neutral Density Filter for taking improved photos at sunrise and sunset.

In other words, no matter what sort of landscape you want to photograph, this kit has the filters you need!

You also get a 100mm filter holder, step rings and adaptor rings, pouches to carry your filters, and a Colby Brown booklet to get your creative juices flowing.

Not bad, right? 



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3 Things Every Travel Photographer Needs in Their Camera Bag

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Have camera, will travel, right?

Even if you don't fly off to exotic locations with your photography gear in tow, there's a few items that will make your task of documenting your journey much, much easier.

From lenses to filters to travel tripods and everything in between, there's quite a bit of gear that's essential to get the shots you want.

It would be just about impossible to list off all the necessities you need (let alone all the cool gadgets that would be just plain fun to have).

However, what I can do is offer up a few suggestions for gear that will come in handy on your travels.

A Prime Lens

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If you ask me, lenses today are better than ever, and regardless of the kind of camera system you have, there's better selection, too.

But for my money, there's no better travel photography lens than a short prime like a 24mm, 35mm, or 50mm.

Prime lenses offer plenty of benefits that will help you get better photos on your travels.

For starters, they're small and light, allowing you to carry them around for longer periods of time without getting as fatigued.

Many prime lenses also have very large maximum apertures, many of which are wider than f/2, so you can operate in low-light conditions and still get quality photos.

See why the 40mm pancake lens is a favorite travel lens of Monique Pantel in the video below:

Since they have fewer internal elements, prime lenses also produce images that are gorgeously sharp - something that's tougher to do with a zoom lens.

But perhaps best of all, without the benefit of a zoom, a prime lens forces you to think about each composition. You have to move around, look for interesting ways to frame the subject, and basically just work harder at your craft.

That's a great way to get a good shot and to improve your photography skills too.

Get some deeper insights into the value of shooting with a prime lens in this detailed guide.

A Good Filter Kit

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A great way to enhance the quality of your photos even further is to outfit your prime lens with a filter.

Better still, take along a complete travel photography filter kit like the Elia Locardi Signature Edition by Formatt-Hitech, and you'll be outfitted for all kinds of travel photography situations.

Tackle long exposures with a 4-stop or a 10-stop neutral density filter that allows you to create gorgeous, movement-filled images like the one above.

Whether you want to blur water, show off lights of passing cars, or highlight the movement of the clouds across the sky, these filters fit the bill.

The Elia Locardi Signature Edition also comes with a soft-edge graduated neutral density filter. That means when you're shooting landscapes, you can more easily tame the dynamic range between the bright sky and the darker landscape.

That means you can spend less time processing your landscape shots to get control over the dynamic range and more time actually outside taking photos as you travel!

EL100kit

This incredible filter kit comes with other goodies too...

If you opt for the 100mm version (shown above), you also get Formatt-Hitech's amazing Firecrest 100mm filter holder, three step rings, a rotating adaptor ring, and a Firecrest 82mm ultraslim polarizing filter, which helps minimize glare and gives the sky a nice boost of contrast.

In other words, it's the complete filter kit you need for all sorts of photography exploits on your travels.

Travel Tripod

There are occasions when you travel when it's simply not practical to have a full-sized tripod.

What's more, you might not want to carry a full-sized tripod (even a travel one) around with you all day long.

But you still need something to stabilize your camera to ensure you get the sharpest images possible.

Enter HandlePod...

You can use HandlePod in a bunch of different ways to get better photos.

Use it as a grip for your camera so you can shoot still photos and videos with greater stability.

Place it on a table or another flat surface and use it as a quadpod too.

Heck, you can even just press it against a tree or another vertical surface to stabilize your camera for the shot.

It even comes with an integrated elastic cord, so you can lash it to a stationary object and get a few great group photos or selfies.

In other words, it's not just a handy tripod, but it's a multifunctional tool that will help you get better shots in more ways than one.

Making the Most of Your Travels

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Travel photography isn't just fun because of the incredible variety of subjects you get to photograph.

It's fun because of all the gorgeous sights you get to see and the people you get to meet along the way.

There's a lot more photography accessories that will improve your ability to get better shots on your travels.

However, with a better lens, a good set of filters, and a sturdy little tripod, you'll be in a position to take better photos virtually immediately.

Now all that's left is to plan your trip and book your flight!



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3 Ways You Can Immediately Improve Your Landscape Photography

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I remember when I first started in landscape photography being completely and totally overwhelmed.

I simply didn't know what to do to "get over the hump" from taking photos that looked like I was a beginner to taking photos that looked like perhaps I knew what I was doing.

All those years ago, I tried tons of tips and tricks to improve the quality of my images. Many of them worked. Some of them didn't.

Here's three of my go-to tips that are sure to help you as well.

Experiment With Depth of Field

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Not every landscape photo you take has to be sharp from front to back like the one shown above.

Sure, that's the norm, and you should take a lot of photos with a large depth of field.

However, part of what will help you elevate your landscape photography game is experimenting with different takes on the same subjects.

Using a shallow depth of field is one such experiment.

By shrinking the depth of field by using a large aperture and focusing on just one small aspect of the landscape, you begin to train your eye to see beyond the big picture.

That is, sometimes we take the small details that a landscape offers for granted. Instead, we often try to stuff absolutely everything we see into the frame.

With a shallow depth of field, though, you're forced to highlight that one fence post, that interesting rock, the beam of light behind an animal, and so forth.

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The result is an unexpectedly intimate landscape photograph that's also unique. And when you can create something unique, the photo will grab the viewer's attention.

That's what you want, right?!

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Use a Polarizing Filter

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When you think of some of the biggest challenges of landscape photography, a polarizer helps control or eliminate quite a few of them.

A polarizer reduces sun glare off of water and other non-metallic surfaces, minimizing that distraction and allowing viewers to more fully appreciate the scene.

Furthermore, a polarizing filter boosts contrast in the sky, making the blue tones deeper and the white tones of the clouds more vibrant. The result is a sky that immediately grabs people's attention.

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Another thing that a polarizing filter specializes in doing is reducing atmospheric haze.

As you look out at a landscape, distant features can often look hazy, as though there's a thin layer of smoke or smog between you and that distant feature.

But polarizers help minimize that haze, giving you the opportunity to create a clearer image of the landscape before you.

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When it comes to polarizers, you need to do your due diligence because not all polarizing filters are made alike.

Some are cheap and poorly constructed, and won't do you or your images any favors.

Others, like the Firecrest Circular Polarizer from Formatt-Hitech, are made of premium materials that give your images that extra visual pop they need.

The filter's anti-reflective multicoating ensures high contrast and spot-on color fidelity.

Firecrest Circular Polarizer 2

What's more, the Firecrest Circular Polarizer is precision milled so its rotating rings offer smooth and precise operation.

In other words, not only do these filters give you the power to control glare, boost contrast in the sky, and minimize atmospheric haze but because they are so well built, they're also incredibly easy to use, too.

Just screw the filter onto your lens, put yourself at a 90-degree angle to the sun (or as close to that as possible) for the best results, and frame up your shot!

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Look for Opportunities for Black and White Landscapes 

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Much like experimenting with depth of field will help you increase your creativity, so too will looking for opportunities to create black and white landscape photos.

In the absence of color, you have to incorporate other features into your black and white photos to give them interest.

Often, this includes features like leading lines, patterns or textures, as seen in the image above.

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But there are other aspects of a landscape that are ideal for black and white photography.

Contrast, for example, is a powerful component of a black and white photo.

And best of all, high contrast lighting is often found during the middle of the day.

That means that when you're out shooting and the lighting is simply too harsh for a color photo, all is not lost!

In addition to looking for the features outlined above, it's important that you understand how to properly create a black and white photo.

Shoot in color and in RAW, that way you have all the image information available to convert the color image to black and white in post-processing.

By going about making a black and white photo in this way, you give yourself the most tools for creating an epic final image that will be clearer, sharper, and more detailed than if you shoot in JPEG and in monochrome mode.

See how to convert color images to black and white in the video above from AdoramaTV.

Learn More:



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4 Easy Landscape Photography Tips for Beginners

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When you're a beginning landscape photographer, it can be easy to get discouraged.

After all, I know when I started out that I'd see a fantastic scene and be so excited about photographing it, only to get home and see that the vibrant beauty of the landscape is not what my photos showed.

But taking your landscape photos to the next level doesn't have to be something that's overly difficult to do.

In fact, these four landscape photography tips are extremely easy to implement, and the results you get can be quite amazing.

Use Filters

Though programs like Photoshop and Lightroom offer you wondrous possibilities for enhancing your photos, the effects you can get by using filters on your camera lens cannot be matched.

That's especially true for landscape photography, which can benefit from any number of filters:

  • Polarizing filter helps cut down on glare off surfaces like water (as seen above), reduce atmospheric haze, and increase contrast in the sky. The result is a photo that has much more visual appeal.
  • Graduated neutral density filters help even out the brightness of the sky and the darkness of the landscape for a more even exposure throughout.
  • Neutral density filters allow you to extend the shutter speed you use during the daytime, which opens up the world of long exposure photography.

There are other filters out there as well, but these three represent the first camera accessories you need to buy.

Editor's Tip: When buying filters, don't buy cheap ones. High-quality filters like those from Formatt-Hitech offer improved performance with better colors and contrast, and less aberrations and vignetting. If you want to maximize the quality of your landscape photos, get set up with filters today.

Use a Tripod

One of the ways that your landscape photos can go wrong is if they're blurry.

Blurry photos result from a number of things - camera shake, using a shutter speed that's too slow to hold the camera, and having the focus off, among them.

A tripod helps eliminate the first two. If the camera is on a stable tripod, it's more capable of getting tack-sharp shots than if you hold the camera. That's true even at fast shutter speeds. Learn more about the best camera for outdoor photography on our website PhotographyTalk.com.

If you're trying to blur the movement of water or clouds, though, and you've got a slow shutter speed to do so, a tripod is an absolute essential.

Buyer beware, though - not all tripods are made alike. Opt for something that's well-built, lightweight, and has features like quick-lock legs for quick setup, an integrated bubble level for getting the horizon straight, and rubber feet with metal spikes to help in the stability department.

Golden Hour is Where It's At

The best light of the day occurs right before sunset and right after sunrise, a period called Golden Hour.

It's called that because the light has a gold tone to it that bathes the landscape in warm light.

It's also very soft light, as it has to travel through more of the Earth's atmosphere. That means that the contrast is lower, giving your camera an easier time with capturing the shadows and highlights in the scene.

If you can't get out to shoot at sunrise or sunset, opt for a cloudy day. The clouds diffuse the light, softening it, and spreading out nice, even lighting across the landscape.

Editor's Tip: Shooting during the daytime hours on a sunny day is least preferable because the light is so harsh, which results in very bright highlights and very dark shadows. When shooting in these conditions, consider converting your photos to black and white, because black and white shots tend to benefit from strong contrast.

Play With the Positioning of the Horizon

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A common mistake that beginner landscape photographers make is to place the horizon line in the middle of the shot.

Though this can be an effective composition in some situations (i.e., when there's a reflection in the shot, as shown above, to enhance the symmetry of the shot), usually, you'll want to adjust the horizon to the upper third or lower third of the frame.

In this shot, for example, the horizon is shifted to the extreme top of the frame.

This is effective because it allowed the photographer to highlight the interaction between the rays of the setting sun and the landscape.

Shifting the horizon upward also allows the viewer to get a better view of the road, which acts as a leading line, pulling the eye out of the canyon below and into the midground and background of the shot.

In other words, if the most interesting aspect of the landscape is in the foreground, shift that horizon upward!

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On the other hand, if you're presented with a situation in which it's the background that's more interesting, shift the horizon downward, that way you dedicate as much of the frame as you can to the background of the shot.

In the image above, you can see how this concept works well.

The depth of the forest and the height of the trees call for a low horizon. By framing the shot in this manner, the photographer highlights the verticality of the scene, as though the trees are reaching skyward through the fog.

Just imagine if this photo had been framed with the horizon in the middle - it wouldn't be nearly as impressive, would it?

Bringing It Together

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There are probably a million more landscape photography tips that you can learn about and implement into your workflow.

But if you're just getting started and you want a few sure-fire ways to improve the quality of your images, these four tips will do the trick!

Try each technique individually at first, then as you master each one, try using them together to see what sort of results you get. You might find that your photos begin to look more like those from the pros!



We Recommend


4 Landscape Photography Composition Tips That Will Change Your Photos For the Better

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If you're like me, you love everything about landscape photography...

The scenery, the fresh air, the vastly different landscapes from one location to the next, the fantastic evening light - you get the point.

Of course, not every photo that we take of landscapes is a winner.

But with these landscape photography composition tips, you can learn how to use landscape composition rules to give your images a helping hand.

Add a Splash of Color

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The human eye loves color. More specifically, our eyes like contrasting colors.

You can use that characteristic to your advantage by adding a splash of color to your photos to help draw people's attention.

In the image above, the contrast between the dark blue color of the water and the dark gray color of the roadway with the bright pops of yellow in the trees makes for one eye-catching image.

These colors might not be perfectly complementary, but they nevertheless work together beautifully.

Learn More:

Find the Beauty in Minimal Landscapes

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Sometimes, landscapes can be so packed with details that they can be a little overwhelming and even chaotic.

A fast fix for that is to compose minimal landscape photos that focus the attention of the viewer on one or two details.

In the image above, you can see this compositional trick at work.

There's really nothing in this shot beyond the line created by the highway, yet the result is a gorgeous example of minimal landscape photography.

All this photo needed was a little structure and contrast, and that's it! If you find that your landscapes feel a little complicated, give minimalism a try.

Learn More:

Compose Left to Right

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In many languages, reading occurs left to right.

So, if you speak one such language and most of the people that view your work speak one such language, it only makes sense to use this photography composition idea to compose left to right.

Doing so feels natural, and allows viewers to inspect the image from front to back.

In the example above, our eyes are drawn first to the waterfall in the foreground on the left, and then they follow the silhouetted forms of the landscape to the right where we finally inspect the setting sun in the background.

This type of composition can be difficult to master, but if you focus on having a strong subject on the left side of the shot and then elements like leading lines that bring the eye to the right, you'll have a winning shot.

Learn More:

Try Centering the Subject

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The best-known of the landscape composition rules is to use the rule of thirds to offset the subject to the left or right of center.

And in most cases, that rule works like a charm...

But sometimes breaking that rule and placing the subject smack in the middle of the shot is the way to go.

In the example above, the sticks protruding from the water are positioned in the middle of the shot, giving this image beautiful symmetry from left to right and top to bottom. This also gives this image excellent visual balance that's quite striking with the minimalist composition.

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But you don't have to create minimalist landscape photos for this photography composition idea to work.

As you can see here, again, the trees are placed in the middle of the frame to allow the viewer to see both the trees and their reflections.

If you're photographing landscapes that include water, give your landscape photo composition a boost by placing the subject in the middle of the frame.

Learn More:

Bonus Tip: Increase the Appeal of Your Landscape Photos With a Polarizing Filter

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In addition to using the landscape photography composition tips outlined above, you can also improve your photos by using a polarizing filter.

Think of a polarizer, like the Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Circular Polarizer shown above, as the Swiss Army Knife of photography filters.

For starters, a polarizer increases the contrast in the sky, making the blues bluer and the whites whiter for dramatic impact.

Secondly, a polarizer helps minimize glare off non-metallic surfaces like water or glass. That means you can get crystal-clear shots of the water without worrying about the sun's glare blocking the view.

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Polarizing filters also reduce atmospheric haze that's often present when shooting during the daytime.

Instead of far-off features like mountains looking pale and low-contrast, with a polarizer, they'll appear to be better defined with more detail.

Of course, you can't get the best results if you use cheap filters, which is why Formatt-Hitech is such a great choice.

Their filters have multicoating technology that makes them extremely durable, but also ensures that you get crisp results with little concern about ghosting, flare, and other aberrations.

And since they're manufactured using Schott Superwite glass, you know that your images will be super sharp and detailed, too.

Combined with the right composition tricks, using a polarizer will help you step up your landscape photography game!

Learn More:



We Recommend


4 Steps All Beginner Photographers Need to Take

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Buying your first camera and learning the ins and outs of photography is a really exciting process.

But it can be overwhelming at times as well.

In fact, it can be so overwhelming that you might not even know where to begin! That's where this article comes in...

Here's four steps you need to take to start mastering the art of photography.

Get Geared Up

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So, obviously you have a camera of some sort, and if its a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you have a lens of some sort as well.

What's next on the gear list?

There's two things you need before anything else - a tripod and a good set of filters.

A tripod is self-explanatory - it provides stability to your camera so you can get sharper photos.

But what many beginner photographers don't understand is the value of lens filters.

Filters give you all sorts of creative control over how your images look, which means the final result will be vastly improved.

This is especially true of landscape photography, where filters can really work some magic.

For example, if you're shooting a scene like the one above in which there's a lot of water and sunshine, you can use a polarizing filter to cut down the glare off the water to reveal a perfect reflection.

But a polarizer actually does much more - it reduces atmospheric haze and increases the contrast of the sky, too.

Editor's Tip: Polarizing filters are great in many situations, but there's also some situations in which you don't want to use a polarizer. Find out when to use and not to use a polarizer here.

Another must-have filter is a graduated neutral density filter.

A graduated ND is dark on the top and light on the bottom, as shown above. Why? To cut down some of the brightness of the sky without impacting the lightness of the landscape...

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In other words, many landscapes have a wide dynamic range, with a dark foreground and a bright sky.

Graduated ND filters eliminate that problem and help you create photos that have much more visual impact, right there in camera.

Editor's Tip: The best graduated ND filters on the market come from Formatt-Hitech. Their filters are designed to give you ultimate performance without busting your budget.

A third type of filters that's great for landscapes is regular neutral density filters.

These filters have a consistent level of filtering power that blocks light from entering the lens.

Since there's less light entering the lens, you can use a longer shutter speed to blur moving features, like clouds or water.

Without a filter like this, you can't slow your shutter enough during daytime shooting to get such gorgeous motion effects.

Editor's Tip: ND filters can even be used for portraits. Find out how useful they can be right here.

Learn More:

Try Different Genres

At some point, you'll likely settle into a specific photography genre as your favorite.

But that should only come after you've tried out different types of photography.

There's a lot of advantages in experimenting with various genres of photography.

First, you learn how to develop your creative eye because the approach to something like portraits is different than it is for something like macro photography.

Second, you become more familiar with your gear and how to use it in varying situations. That only helps you in the future when you're confronted with different subjects, lighting, and so forth.

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, you never know what kind of photography you'll fall in love with until you try it.

I jumped right into landscape photography and never looked back, and though I really like it, it was years later when I finally tried portraiture and realized I really like that too.

So, don't limit yourself when you're learning photography. Give everything a try, and you'll be a better photographer in the future because of it.

Practice - A Lot

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To follow up on the previous point, not only should you try lots of different types of photography, but you also simply need to take a lot of photos.

And when I say "take a lot of photos" I don't mean pointing and shooting at random things.

Not only do you need to dedicate time each day for photography, but you need to go about the process in the right way.

For example, if you set aside 20 minutes a day to photography, spend that time working on framing, composition, and learning how to use your camera.

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If when you're practicing you make a mistake, try to pinpoint what went wrong and learn from that mistake.

And don't just spend your daily photography time taking photos, either.

Read the owner's manual for your camera. Watch a YouTube tutorial. Read articles like this one.

The more time you invest in photography, the better your photos will be!

Learn More:

Get Feedback

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This step is the one that makes new photographers the most nervous...

It's understandable, because it's hard to put yourself and your work out there for critique.

The upside, though, is that by soliciting feedback on your photos, you can begin to more clearly define what's working, what isn't working, and make a plan for improving your photography in the future.

The key is to get feedback from worthwhile sources.

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By that, I mean don't just slap a photo on Facebook and ask your friends and family to tell you how much they like it - that's not the kind of feedback that will help you grow.

Instead, really put yourself out there and post your images to places like our forums where amateur and professional photographers have a chance to see your images and offer detailed and critical feedback.

We tend to see our photos through rose-colored glasses, so breaking through that and getting some genuine constructive criticism could be what's needed for you to take your photography to the next level!



We Recommend


5 Camera Accessories All Nikon Shooters Must Have

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I know what you're thinking...

This article is nothing but a bunch of useless accessories that you'll never need.

But trust me, this has nothing to do with spending a bunch of money on unnecessary photography gear.

Instead, this is all about maximizing the use of your Nikon camera with high-quality accessories that expand your creative and technical abilities.

If you want to take better photos, you obviously have to learn basic photography rules of composition, framing, exposure, and the like.

But having the right gear also helps you take better photos.

If you've got a Nikon camera, these five accessories are among the best you can buy.

4V Design Piuma QR Camera Strap

For me, the most underrated camera accessory is the camera strap.

That just doesn't make any sense because an upgraded strap not only means a more secure means of carrying your camera but a more comfortable one as well.

Believe me - I know the difference.

For years, I kept the original Nikon strap on my camera, but only when I upgraded to an aftermarket strap did I realize just how stupid I was not to upgrade sooner.

If you want something that's the height of comfort, choose the Piuma QR Camera Strap by 4V Design, pictured above and below.

The Piuma QR has an ergonomic design that allows you to carry your Nikon for hours on end without feeling the pinch and fatigue that cheap camera straps cause.

What's more, the Piuma QR has a memory foam pad with high grip technology, so not only is it comfortable, but it also conforms to the unique contours of your neck and shoulder for an incredible fit.

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Speaking of fit, this strap has two length adjustments, so you can raise and lower the camera to just the right length such that your camera is right at your fingertips.

And for those times when you need to remove your strap quickly and easily, the Piuma QR has a quick-release attachment too.

In other words, this thing is comfortable, helps you securely and safely carry your camera, is versatile, and looks absolutely incredible. What's not to like about that?

Learn more about the Piuma QR Camera Strap.

Alpine Labs Pulse

Having a camera remote for your Nikon opens up all sorts of creative possibilities for your photography.

On the one hand, you can take better selfies and family portraits by being able to fire your shutter remotely.

On the other hand, you can get sharper photos because you can fire the shutter without having to touch your camera, an action that can produce enough vibration to cause blurry photos.

But not all camera remotes are made equal...

If you want to have expanded capabilities for your photography, get Pulse by Alpine Labs.

This little gadget packs a big punch because not only can you fire your shutter remotely, but you can also create gorgeous long exposures and time-lapse videos.

Just attach Pulse to your Nikon's hot-shoe mount, plug it into your camera's USB port, and you have control over the shutter remotely from your smartphone.

You can also control aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, get thumbnail previews of the images you take, look at the histograms for your images, and even tackle HDR photography too.

With Bluetooth connectivity, you can operate your camera from up to 100 feet away, and if you need to venture further, just dial in the desired settings and Pulse will take it from there - even if your smartphone is no longer paired with it.

Take awesome real-time videos, time-lapses, long exposures, and still photos, all with one tiny gadget that weighs just 1.5 ounces. That's a lot of bang for your buck!

Learn more about Alpine Labs Pulse.

Formatt-Hitech Master Filter Kit, Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition

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Having a good set of filters is a must-have for any shooter, not just those of us with Nikons.

But not all filters are made alike...

Just like you tend to get what you pay for when you buy a lens, cheapo filters tend to get you cheap-looking results.

Instead, I recommend the Master Filter Kit, Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition by Formatt-Hitech.

No matter if you enjoy landscapes, architecture, travel photography, or long exposures, this kit has you covered.

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Not only do you get a 3-stop Firecrest neutral density filter, but you also get a Firecrest 6-stop, and 10-stop neutral density filter too.

Also included are two Firecrest Soft Edge graduated neutral density filters of 2-stops and 3-stops, respectively.

Add in an aluminum holder, a 67mm and an 85mm adapter kit, a polarizing ring, and a Firecrest SuperSlim circular polarizer, and you've got a complete filter kit that's ready to work for you. There's even a 100mm version!

Firecrest filters are known for their superior quality that gets you plenty of reduction in visible and non-visible light without impacting the color or detail of your images.

Learn more about the Formatt-Hitech Master Filter Kit, Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition.

A Good Prime Lens

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Everyone needs a good prime lens...

Why?

Prime lenses offer great low-light shooting capabilities, tons of versatility for tackling different subject matter, and are usually lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry.

As a Nikon shooter, there are plenty of prime lenses you can choose from, but my bet is on the Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G DX.

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This standard lens produces images that closely resemble what we see with our own eyes, giving a familiar look to the images you take.

But with that massive f/1.8 aperture, you can tackle low-light photography, create portraits with beautiful bokeh, get more intimate landscape shots, and even take on things like street photography.

That makes the 35mm lens a versatile option, too.

In fact, you'll likely find that it becomes your default lens, the one that's attached to your camera when you pull it out of your camera bag.

Learn more about the Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G DX.

A Good External Flash

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I don't need to tell you that the built-in flash on your Nikon isn't all that. It's not good on any camera!

So, if you're looking for must-have accessories for your Nikon camera, add a solid hot-shoe-mounted flash to your list.

For starters, flashes like the Metz Mecablitz 64 AF-1 have a head that can tilt and swivel to adapt to your lighting needs. That tilting and swiveling action also allows you to change the quality and intensity of the light that falls on your subject.

What's more, you can use an external flash to bounce light off a wall or ceiling, for a softer, more even look that's impossible to get with your camera's built-in flash, as seen in the image below.

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But there's versatility in how you use a flash like the Metz Macablitz as well...

Take it off your hot-shoe mount and fire it remotely.

Add a radio trigger, and you can get an improved range for remote firing, giving you much more leeway regarding how you light your photos.

Learn more about the Metz Mecablitz 64 AF-1 flash.

Wrapping It Up

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This is by no means a comprehensive list of every accessory you can get for your Nikon camera, but these are some of the very best, in my humble opinion anyway.

Taking a better photo is all about being prepared, and one way to be prepared is to have a kit that helps you improve composition and exposure, expands your creative boundaries, and makes taking photos an easier and more streamlined experience.

The accessories on this list will help you do just that!



We Recommend


9 Items Any Photographer Would Want in Their Camera Bag

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I get questions all the time about the gear I use or the gear that I would recommend.

The questions don't just come from beginner photographers either...

Enthusiast and even professional photographers are always on the lookout for the best gear they can get their hands on.

That's where this list comes in...

I sat down and took stock of the gear I have in my collection and did some research about new and exciting products that I wouldn't mind adding to my kit.

The result of that work is this list of nine things that any photographer would love to have in their camera bag.

Roamographer Bag

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I might as well start with something that allows you to carry all your awesome gear!

The Roamographer Bag by Holdfast is a remarkable camera bag, to say the least.

It exists at the intersection of form and function, so you not only get something that protects and organizes your gear, but you also get a bag that is absolutely drop-dead gorgeous.

I mean, just look at the image above, and you can immediately see the quality of craftsmanship that goes into making each bag.

The Roamographer comes in two sizes (seen above) - large that's perfect for DSLR gear, and small that's ideal for carrying a mirrorless system.

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Either way, you get a bag that's got the appeal of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality with a camera insert to keep your gear safe and organized, carrier straps to easily carry your tripod, and a shearling-lined shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

Better still, the camera insert is removable, so you don't just get a bag that protects your gear, but is a versatile bag too. Use it for weekends away or as a carry on when you don't need your photography gear.

And for those days when you'll be out shooting for a long time, you can carry the Roamographer on Holdfast's excellent MoneyMaker camera harness, as seen in the image above.

That makes the Roamographer the complete package when it comes to camera bags - it's versatile, durable, comfortable to carry, and it looks damn good too!

Learn more about the Holdfast Roamographer.

Now that you have the inside track on one of the best camera bags around, let's focus on what you can carry inside of it.

Microsoft Surface Book

surfacebook minI've written a lot lately about why Microsoft is becoming the go-to producer of computers for creative professionals.

If I were to summarize my arguments for the Surface Book, it would come down to two primary features.

First, it's simply much more versatile than a Macbook because you can use it as a laptop and as a tablet.

I find myself working in laptop mode to do things like write this article, then switch to tablet mode when I want to plop down on the couch and catch up on all the latest photography news after the workday is done.

Heck, the tablet mode is even great for showing proofs to clients, taking care of quick tasks like sending emails to clients and making updates to the website.

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Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, the Surface Book has a touch screen that makes editing photos a million time easier than a traditional laptop setup.

Instead of dragging my finger around on the trackpad or using the mouse, I just unfurl the Surface Pen and go about making highly precise edits right on the screen.

It's totally changed the way that I work, and given a chance, I'm confident it could change how you work too.

Learn more about the Microsoft Surface Book.

Sirui W-2204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod

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Since you'll have a great camera bag that allows you to easily carry your tripod, you might as well have a top-shelf tripod to use, right?

The Sirui W-2204 has all the features you want in a quality tripod - it's waterproof, lightweight, durable, and has four-section legs that are easily adjustable with twist locks.

Better still, this tripod has a removable leg that you can attach to the center column to turn it into a monopod. Now that's versatility!

Throw in stainless steel retractable foot spikes for extra grip, a center column hook to weigh the tripod down for added stability, and the ability to support almost 40 pounds, and you've got one excellent rig for whatever your adventures.

Learn more about the Sirui W-2204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod.

Acratech GP Ballhead

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Complete the tripod package by adding an Acratech GP Ballhead to your Sirui W-2204.

This ballhead is extremely versatile and can be used as a gimbal head when shooting with long telephoto lenses or even upside down to act as a leveler for panoramic photos.

You can pan smoothly and easily, maintaining a parallel course to the horizon even on the most uneven ground.

The Acratech GP comes with a bullseye level, a quick-release clamp, and a double-speed knob. There's also a detent pin that keeps the plate and your camera in place, even if the quick-release plate becomes loosened.

And at just one pound, it's something you can easily add to your kit without adding a ton of weight to carry around.

Learn more about the Acratech GP Ballhead.

Alpine Labs Pulse

pulsealpinelabs minIf you're looking for an easy way to improve your long exposures, time-lapse videos, and still photos, look no further than Pulse.

This little gadget sits on your hot-shoe mount and gives you wireless control over your camera from up to 100 feet away via Bluetooth.

And don't just think that you can fire the shutter with Pulse - it's much more than that.

You can adjust exposure settings, dial in time-lapse settings, get image previews, and even look at the histogram for the images you take - all from your smartphone.

You can bracket exposures for HDR, set a time delay for a photo, and ramp your exposure for gorgeous day-to-night time-lapse videos as well.

That's all in a package that weighs only 1.5 ounces!

Learn more about Pulse.

Formatt-Hitech Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition Filter Kit

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Having a good set of filters is a critical part of any photographer's kit, and it's hard to beat the Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition Filter Kit from Formatt-Hitech.

This kit includes everything you need: a 3-stop, 6-stop, and 10-stop Firecrest ND filter, a Firecrest ND soft edge grad, a 105mm Firecrest Polarizer, a 77mm wide-angle adapter, and a 100mm holder.

These filters are manufactured to the highest standards, featuring incredible durability, scratch resistance, and image quality.

You even get a booklet by Ken Kaminesky to inspire your photography!

Learn more about the Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition Filter Kit.

Camera Body

Of course, the main thing you'll need in your awesome photography kit is an equally awesome camera body.

I'd like to make three recommendations because I don't want to get pigeonholed into recommending just one manufacturer.

With that in mind, I have my top picks from Canon, Nikon, and Sony.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III

There are newer 5D models, but the Mark III has my heart.

Like the Nikon D810 (see below) it produces excellent image quality without the larger price tag of newer models.

It's got a 22.3-megapixel sensor that's more than enough to get high-resolution images. The 61-point autofocus isn't the largest or fastest out there, but it still performs well, as does its 65-point metering system.

The 5D Mark III is also plenty fast, with a DIGIC 5+ processor that made it 17x faster than the 5D Mark II.

In other words, though the 5D Mark III debuted five years ago, it's still a great camera and one you can get for much cheaper than newer Canon options.

Learn more about the Canon 5D Mark III.

Nikon D810

The Nikon D810 isn't the newest camera from Nikon, but it's still my top choice because of its plentiful features and the lower price compared to newer models from Nikon.

With a 36-megapixel full frame sensor and a 51-point autofocus system with an upgraded processor, you get high-resolution images with quick response.

Add to that a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, and you've got a rig that can go anywhere you do and perform at the top of its game.

There's no fancy features like Wi-Fi or GPS (though they can be added), a tilting LCD, or blazing continuous shooting speed, but that doesn't change the fact that the Nikon D810 is one of my go-to camera bodies that has helped me produce a bunch of excellent images over the years.

Learn more about the Nikon D810.

Sony A7R II

As far as mirrorless cameras go, I'm not sure there's a better one than the Sony A7R II.

With a 42-megapixel sensor that garnered a 98/100 image quality score, it's certainly got the chops to generate some truly detailed images.

Unlike many other mirrorless cameras, the A7R II also has a top-notch autofocus system that is on par with many DSLRs.

It also features in-body five-axis image stabilization so that you can push the boundaries of shutter speed with less worry about camera shake.

Add in the fact that the A7R II weighs just about one pound without a lens, and it's clear this is a camera for on-the-go photographers and travel photographers that need to work lean and mean.

Learn more about the Sony A7R II.

There you have it - a collection of incredible gear to put in your incredible camera bag.

I realize not everyone will agree with my choices, and that some of these items are on the spendy side...

However, you get what you pay for, so spending a little extra money now on great gear means you'll have things that last you for years and years!



We Recommend


A Beginner's Guide to Long Exposure Photography

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Long Exposure Photography

So, you've had some time behind the lens and feel pretty comfortable taking standard photos - landscapes, portraits, and the like.

Now you want to step it up a bit and tackle something that gives you more of a challenge and helps you produce images that are eye-catching at the same time.

A natural progression from standard still photography is long exposures.

After all, it's essentially the same process that's required, and you really don't need much additional gear.

Let's have a look at what you need to do as a beginner long exposure photographer.

The Gear

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Really, the only piece of kit you need beyond a camera with manual controls, a lens, a camera remote, and tripod in order to take long exposure photos is a neutral density (ND) filter.

An ND filter has one job - reduce the amount of light that enters your lens.

By doing so, an ND filter forces the camera to use a longer shutter speed to get a well-exposed image, resulting in photos like the one above that show motion effects in a landscape over time. Learn more about ND filters in this comprehensive guide.

There are a million ND filters out there, though, which makes the process of choosing which one is right for you a tall task.

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You should approach the purchase of filters in the same way you approach buying lenses.

In that regard, you typically get what you pay for, with good filters (like good lenses) typically costing more money.

However, you will get much better results with a high-quality ND filter - just like you will get better results with a high-quality lens - so the expenditure of extra money is usually worth it.

Besides, why spend extra money on a great lens and then ruin it by putting a bargain-basement filter in front of it?

 ND Starter Filter Kit

There are ways to get a great filter and not spend a ton of money, though.

Take, for example, the ND Starter Filter Kit by Formatt-Hitech that's shown above.

These guys have a solid reputation for making some of the best filters out there, and the ones included in this kit are no exception.

The kit includes two must-have filters - a 3-stop solid ND filter for taking photos of beautifully blurry water and clouds, and a 3-stop soft edge graduated ND filter that's ideal for equalizing the dynamic range in landscape photos.

Also included in the kit is an aluminum filter holder and an adapter ring that allows you to mount the filter to your lens.

In other words, it's a complete kit for beginners that will allow you to get started in long exposures with beautiful photos as a result.

Learn more about photography accessories from Formatt-Hitech.

Subject Matter

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Of course, getting the gear is just the first step in creating long exposures. You also need to find appropriate subject matter.

In this case, you need to photograph a scene that has movement - clouds passing by, a river or waterfall, or people or cars moving through the field of view.

Regardless of the subject you chose, an ND filter allows you to blur that movement to get the gorgeous motion effects you see in the images above and below.

When composing the shot, you want to be able to highlight that motion by placing it prominently in the frame.

But you also don't want to forget to include other elements in the shot that enhance the feeling of motion.

By that I mean that including things like boulders in a stream or buildings in front of moving clouds helps amplify the implied motion.

That's not to mention that you need to think about typical compositional rules as well, such as including foreground interest, being wary of distracting backgrounds, and using the rule of thirds to create more balanced compositions.

Learn more about selecting subjects for long exposures in the video above by DigitalRev TV.

Calculating Shutter Speeds

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By far, the most labor intensive aspect of creating a long exposure is in figuring out the shutter speed you need to use with your ND filter on your lens.

Depending on the conditions, you might need just a couple of seconds of exposure, or you might need well beyond 30 seconds.

That means you need to figure out what shutter speed to use by doing a bit of math:

  • Get a baseline exposure time for the image without your ND filter attached. Do this by using aperture priority mode and setting the desired aperture.
  • Let's assume the camera selects a 1-second shutter speed based on the aperture you choose. Then, mount the filter to your lens and keep the aperture the same.
  • If you're using a 3-stop ND filter, you'd need to double the shutter speed three times, which in this case would make it an 8-second exposure.
  • Use your camera remote to fire the shutter, and you should have the long exposure effect you're going for!

Granted, making these calculations can get a little laborious, so you can use one of many excellent apps for calculating long exposures, like the Long Exposure Calculator for iOS devices and the Exposure Calculator for Android devices.

Wrapping It Up

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Making the leap into long exposure photography isn't something that should cause you too much stress.

As I noted above, it's really just a matter of using an ND filter and being able to calculate (or use an app to calculate) the correct exposure time.

I've linked to various resources throughout this article that offer more in-depth discussions of various topics, so be sure to explore those to get detailed information about creating long exposures.

In the meantime, it all starts with getting the right gear, so grab a high-quality ND filter kit, download a long exposure calculator, and go find a beautiful scene to capture in your first long exposure!



We Recommend


A Guide to Lens Filters for Absolute Beginners

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So, you've picked up a new camera and lens, now what?

In addition to learning the ropes with your camera, you also need to get outfitted with the right camera accessories to make taking the best pictures more likely.

Some of the essential gear you need includes a good set of photography filters.

The type of filters you need depends in part on the type of photography you typically do.

With that in mind, here's a quick rundown of some of the most popular photography filters and why you might want one. The operative word here is "quick." For more details about each type of filter, check the Learn More links at the end of each section.

For illustrative purposes, I'll use Formatt-Hitech filters as examples. These filters are well made, priced right, and offer you the ability to capture better photos to boot.

When you buy filters, quality matters - which is why I recommend this brand of filter.

UV Filters

Firecrest UV 400nm

UV filters are nice to have because they offer an added layer of protection for your lens glass.

Let's face it - lenses aren't exactly cheap, so having a UV filter on your lens to take any lumps that might come its way is a pretty good idea.

Instead of scratching or cracking the lens element (or exposing it to dirt, dust, and grime), you can expose your UV filter to those things.

If it breaks, it's a much lesser issue than if the lens breaks, that's for sure.

Originally, UV filters were also used to cut out UV light when shooting with a film camera. These days, digital cameras can eliminate UV light on their own.

However, having some protection for your lens glass is still a good plan, and if you get the Formatt-Hitech Firecrest UV filter shown above, it'll improve the contrast and acuity of your images, too.

Learn More:

Polarizing Filter

One of the most versatile filters you can buy is a polarizer.

Essentially, a polarizer changes how you camera interacts with light, cutting down on glare off of non-metallic surfaces like water, glass, or plant life.

What's more, polarizing filters enhance the color of the sky, making it a deeper blue, while also boosting the white color of the clouds for improved contrast.

They even cut down atmospheric haze, giving you the ability to have a cleaner, crisper image when shooting outdoors.

As a result, polarizers are ideal for landscape photography.

In the case of Formatt-Hitech filters, you get a filter with the Firecrest anti-reflective multicoating, which ensures the photos you take have the best color fidelity and contrast.

The precision-milled housings are a nice feature, too, which come in SuperSlim and UltraSlim rotating rings for ease of use.

Learn More:

Graduated Neutral Density Filters

Another top filter for landscape photography is the graduated neutral density variety.

These filters help even out the wide dynamic range you often find in landscapes.

That is, the sky is often very bright with a much darker landscape, so a graduated neutral density filter helps even that out, as seen in the image above.

That effect is accomplished because the filtering power of the filter is graduated - it's dark on the top to darken the sky and clear on the bottom to have no effect on the landscape.

These filters come in different types, including soft-edge grads, in which the transition from dark to light is quite smooth. These filters are ideal for landscapes in which the horizon is not definite, like the mountain scene above.

On the other hand, hard-edge grads have a very abrupt shift from dark to light and are ideal for situations in which the horizon line is straight with no interruptions, such as an ocean scene in which the horizon is flat.

There's even reverse neutral density filters which are specially made for sunrise and sunset photos.

These filters are dark on top, even darker in the middle, and clear on the bottom. That's because at sunrise and sunset, the brightest area will be on the horizon, thus the need for the darkest filtration to be in the middle.

See the difference between these types of graduated neutral density filters in the video above by Formatt-Hitech.

Learn More:

Neutral Density Filters

Regular neutral density filters are used to cut down the light that enters your camera's lens.

The purpose of doing so is to get blurry motion effects like those seen in the image above.

These effects look great and add drama to the photo, but the problem is that the shutter speed needed to get that kind of blur will mean a very, very overexposed image without a filter to cut down on some of the light entering the lens.

Neutral density filters, like the one shown above, come in various strengths which are measured in stops (i.e., 1-stop, 2-stop, 3-stop, and so on). The larger the stop, the darker the filter is and the longer the shutter speed you can use.

But neutral density filters aren't just for blurring the motion of water or getting interesting light streaks as cars pass by.

Instead, you can use them in any situation in which you want to use a nice, big aperture to get a beautifully blurry background.

That includes portraits, where neutral density filters give you a little more creative control when shooting during the daytime hours.

Learn More:

And there you have it. A quick guide to the most common types of photography filters.

As I noted earlier, for more details about each type of filter, how to use them, and specs and prices on each, check the Learn More links found throughout this article.

You'll find that once you get used to using filters, you won't believe the difference they can make in the quality of your images!



We Recommend


A Step-By-Step Process for Improving Your Photos

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Let's face it...

We're all looking for ways to improve our photos, regardless of whether we just started in photography or have been at it for years.

And the great thing about photography today is that there are tons of things you can do that will help you improve the quality of your photos.

You can read tutorials, watch YouTube videos, and get gear that will facilitate better photo-taking.

In this article, I'd like to focus on a few steps you can take to ensure your photos are the highest possible quality and review some gear that will help you achieve that goal.

Stabilize Your Camera for Sharper Photos

Blurriness in photos is one of the most common problems that photographers experience, especially beginner photographers.

Yet despite being so common, it is a problem that's easily addressed with a good tripod.

A tripod can solve the blurriness issue because no matter how sturdy of hand you think you are, there will still be minute movements as you take the photo.

But by putting your camera on a tripod, you eliminate the possibility of camera shake and ensure that the photos you take are nice and sharp.

Editor's Tip: Don't have a tripod? Get a high-quality tripod from Sirui. Two of their most popular models - the ET-2004 Kit and the W-1004 (both shown above) - offer tons of features that make them easy to setup and use (including some models that have a built-in monopod). Sirui's tripods are also well-priced, so you can get a great tripod without busting your budget. Learn more about Sirui products by clicking here.

Learn More:

Work Hands-Free

Blurry photos are such a common problem that there's another step you should take to protect against them.

That step is to work hands-free and use a camera remote.

A camera remote allows you to trigger the shutter without actually touching your camera.

The benefit of that, is, of course, that you don't inadvertently cause your camera to move or vibrate. That means sharper photos.

Of course, not all camera remotes are alike.

The best camera remote on the market is the Alpine Labs Spark.

This thing gives you much more power over your camera than simply triggering the shutter for sharper photos.

In fact, not only can you control your camera in three different ways - as a wired remote, an infrared remote, and via an app on your phone - but you can also take still photos, long exposures, real-time videos, and time-lapse videos as well.

Perhaps best of all, Spark comes in a tiny package that sits on top of your camera, so you don't have to lug around a big, heavy apparatus to reap all the benefits of sharper (and more creative) photos.

Combined with a good tripod, a camera remote will help you get your photos beautifully sharp and fine-tuned for maximum visual impact.

Learn More:

Upgrade Your Lens Game

One of the best gear upgrades you can make to get higher-quality shots is in the lens department.

The kit lenses that come packaged with many cameras are just fine for learning the ropes, but they aren't the highest-quality glass (which is why they're bundled with cameras).

These lenses often have plastic bodies, fewer lens elements, and lower-quality glass, which means photos that are less sharp with poorer color fidelity than higher-end glass.

What's more, more expensive camera lenses have less aberrations, ghosting, and flare, all of which can reduce the quality of your photos.

If you're upgrading your lens for the first time, a great choice is a 50mm lens, which is often called a "Nifty Fifty."

These lenses are great because they are extremely versatile and can be used for anything from portraits to landscapes to architecture and just about anything in between.

They often have a very large aperture as well, so you can shoot in low-light conditions and get improved results without having to resort to using a flash or a very high ISO.

Nifty Fifties are often inexpensive, too, so you can get a great lens for your kit and not have to spend a ton of money!

Editor's Note: Get outfitted with a higher-end lens and save money at the same time by buying a pre-owned lens. The ideal marketplace to do so is Lensfinder, which gives photographers like you and me a platform for buying (and selling) used lenses. The process is quick and easy, with tons of protections to ensure it's a smooth transaction. Learn more about Lensfinder by visiting their website.

Learn More:

Use Filters to Add Drama

Perhaps one of the simplest steps you can take to create more eye-catching photos is to use filters.

Some photographers these days shirk the use of filters in favor of using programs like Photoshop or Lightroom to add effects in post-processing.

But if you ask me, the impact of using a good filter simply cannot be replicated when you edit the photo.

For example, if you're shooting landscapes, a polarizing filter can do a number of things to bring out the drama in the shot.

That includes boosting the contrast of the sky, such that the blue is deeper and the white of the clouds is brighter for more pop.

Polarizing filters also reduce the glare of the sun off the surface of water and other non-metallic objects, which means viewers get to see the color of the water (and even into the water) and not be distracted by a sharp glare.

Polarizers reduce atmospheric haze as well, so viewers can see the landscape in clear, crisp beauty.

If you're shooting portraits, you can use a neutral density filter to create an ethereal look in which there's blurred movement in the shot.

That might be blurring water, as is the case in the image above, or it could be blurring clouds, passing cars, or even people.

You can also pair an ND filter with your flash to get improved results, or use an ND filter when shooting outside to get improved dynamic range in your photos.

Of course, ND filters are also ideal for creating landscapes with beautifully blurred motion, too.

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The moral of the story is that dramatic, eye-catching photos might look complicated to create, but if you have the right filters, you too can make these kinds of images!

Just be sure you get the right kind of filters for the job, as some are certainly better than others.

Formatt-Hitech, for example, has a great line of filters, including their Firecrest Ultra filters that take quality to the next level.

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These filters are the only professional filters that are bonded to protect the filter coating. That means better durability over the long-term.

What's more, Firecrest Ultra filters are lap and polish filters, which means they have improved clarity and sharpness.

With Firecrest Ultra NDs, graduated NDs, and reverse NDs, you'll be ready to go to create highly dramatic photos!

Learn More:



We Recommend


Accessories for Landscape Photography You Need in Your Camera Bag

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When I first started in photography, I shot landscapes almost exclusively.

And when I say I shot landscapes, I mean I literally had nothing more than my camera and lens.

I had no kit whatsoever, and my early landscape photos suffered because of it.

Well, if I'm being honest, they suffered for a lot more reasons, but that's another story entirely.

The point is that landscape photography benefits greatly from having the right equipment beyond your camera and lens

That doesn't mean you have to spend thousands and thousands of dollars on accessories, though.

In fact, if you really only need a few items to make your landscape photography adventures more productive and more fun.

In an earlier post, I discussed the required gear you need - a camera, a lens, a tripod, and so forth.

In this post, let's take a look at some interesting gadgets that do everything from help you create better photos to keep you organized to help you tend to broken gear to making your outing more comfortable.

Filters

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Taking landscape photos without filters is like trying to handhold your camera while using an ultra-low shutter speed.

Sure, you'll get a photo, but it won't reach the potential that it could.

Having a solid set of filters helps you overcome all sorts of obstacles, from bright skies and dark landscapes to sunset photos that are too dark to using long exposures, even in daylight.

Formatt-Hitech's Colby Brown Signature Edition Landscape Photography Filter Kit fits the bill for virtually any landscape photos you wish to take.

The kit includes the following filters:

  • A Firecrest 6-stop ND filter for taking long exposures that result in gorgeously smooth water, like that in the image you see above.
  • A Firecrest ND soft edge grad that that helps you darken bright skies and reduce the dynamic range between the sky and the landscape, resulting in a photo that's better exposed throughout.
  • An ND reverse grad, which is ideally suited for getting well-exposed sunrise and sunset photos due to the darkest area of filtration being right in the middle of the filter. Darken the brightest parts of the sky, keep the foreground bright, and enjoy well-exposed Golden Hour photos like the one below.

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The kit also comes with all the hardware you need to use these filters with your lens. That includes a Firecrest 100mm filter holder, an 82mm rotating adaptor ring, and numerous step rings.

If you opt for the premier Colby Brown Signature Kit, you also get a Firecrest SuperSlim Polarizer, which helps reduce glare off of water and boosts the saturation of the sky.

In other words, this is an all-in-one landscape photography filter kit that you need if you're serious about upgrading the quality of your photos!

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But like I noted earlier, the Colby Brown Signature kit is great for virtually all kinds of landscape photos you might want to take.

If you really want to step up your landscape photography game and take truly unique photos, you also need to add a quality solar filter to your kit.

I know what you're thinking...solar filters are only good for the upcoming total solar eclipse, right?

Wrong!

Though having a solar filter for the eclipse later this year is definitely a must-have, you can use a solar filter any day of the year to capture the amazing beauty of the sun without damaging the delicate optics of your lens or camera.

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For my money, you can't beat Seymour Solar's Helios Glass Threaded Camera Solar Filter shown above.

First of all, Seymour Solar has a reputation for making fine optics that not only protect your gear, but do so in a way that doesn't reduce teh quality of your photos.

That is, their threaded glass filter is made of high-grade Helios solar glass that has a reflective coating on it to block the sun's harmful rays.

In fact, as an ND 5 solar filter, this thing blocks 99.999 percent of light.

Secondly, the Helios glass filter offers incredible resolution - much better than film filters - so your images of the sun will be beautifully detailed.

And as if that's not enough, these filters are easy on the budget, so you don't have to take out a second mortgage to get one!

No matter if you need a solar filter that's 37mm, 95mm or somewhere in between, Seymour Solar has you covered.

Weatherproofing Accessories

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When you're out in nature, you never know when the weather might take a turn for the worse.

You certainly don't want to be out shooting photos and be left in a situation in which you have no way to protect your gear from the elements.

That means having accessories for everything from your camera to your memory cards.

Keep your memory cards safe and sound in a waterproof holder like the JJC MC-2 Memory Card Case shown above.

It's rubber sealed and waterproof, so even in the strongest of downpours, you can rest assured your precious cards will be nice and dry.

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You also need to protect your camera and lens from rain, snow, and other moisture, and a camera rain cover fits the bill.

These covers can prove to be invaluable for those occasions when you just can't get out of the elements.

Rain covers are inexpensive (the one pictured above is $13.00), easy to put on with zippers and velcro straps, and are universal, so you can use in on a Canon, Nikon, or just about any other brand of DSLR.

Between the camera rain cover and the memory card case, you aren't out hardly any money, yet have what you need to keep your gear dry. That's peace of mind that's worth every single penny!

Weather App

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Of course, checking the weather before you go out to photograph landscapes should be part of your routine, but storms can show up with little warning once you're out.

To keep up-to-date on the weather near you, get an app like Weather Underground, which is free for iOS and Android devices.

Weather Underground uses NEXRAD radar information combined with data from 200,000 individual weather stations worldwide to give you pinpoint accuracy for rain, wind, temperature, humidity, and other essential measurements.

That includes highly detailed hourly forecasts with radar imaging that shows the path of the storm.

Another handy feature is the First Light/Last Light function, which goes beyond telling you when the sun rises or sets and lets you know when it will be fully light or fully dark. That's a great feature for nabbing those sunrise and sunset photos!

There are plenty of other apps you can get, too...

Some tell you where to find the darkest skies for nighttime photo shoots.

Others help you process your landscape images so they look their best.

Check out five popular apps, with explanations of each in the video above by Serge Ramelli.

Tools

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I know, I know..."tools" makes it sound like you have to head into the wilderness with a full-on toolbelt around your waist.

But that's not the case...

Really, the most essential tools are a tripod wrench and a multitool.

In the case of the former, you don't want to hike for an hour to get to your shoot location and find that your quick-release plate or L-plate is loose. I've used a dime to tighten them up in a pinch, but a tripod wrench does a much better job (and it takes up next to no space in your bag or can be put on your keyring).

The Thinguma K-532 shown above will get the job done on virtually any tripod plate you might use.

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In the case of the latter, you never know when you'll be out taking awesome landscape photos and find that you need scissors, pliers, or a bottle opener.

Having a multitool like the Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier can get you out of more than one jam when you're out in the field.

And, like the tripod wrench discussed above, the Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier doesn't weigh a heck of a lot and can be added to your camera bag without taking up a lot of space.

Hot-Shoe Bubble Level

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One of the quickest ways to ruin an otherwise great landscape photo is to have a horizon that isn't level.

Many cameras today have an integrated level that you can see when shooting in live view.

A lot of tripods also have built-in levels, so you're sure to get those horizons straight.

But if you find that your gear is without a level, you can grab a hot-shoe bubble level like the one above for less than $10.00.

What a hot-shoe level has over the others is that it's right there at your eye level for easy reading.

One of my cameras has an integrated level, but I never use it because I forget it's there. But with this big green box on top of my camera, I always remember to check it before framing up the shot.

Other Goodies

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There are plenty of other accessories for photography to add to your bag, too. Extra batteries for your camera are a must, especially if you'll be out in the cold or you have a long day of shooting planned.

Speaking of extras, having multiple memory cards (inside your waterproof holder!) is another must-have. Bring a second lens while you're at it. Having a wide-angle like an 18mm and a standard lens like a 50mm will help you get different perspectives on the same terrain.

With lens changes come the opportunity for your lenses to get dirty. Bring along some blower so you can get rid of the big gunk and spend less time trying to Photoshop it out of your photos.

If you pack your camera bag with the accessories explored above, you will be well-prepared to meet just about any challenge!



We Recommend


An Ideal Smartphone Photography Kit

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As our smartphones become increasingly good cameras, it makes sense to start thinking about the accessories you can use to enhance their power.

One Google search of "smartphone photography accessories," and you'll see just how many gadgets and gizmos you can buy for your smartphone.

Some, of course, are more style than substance. Others are complete rip offs.

Yet other smartphone photography accessories are worth their weight in gold, and will actually help you improve the versatility of your smartphone as a camera and the quality of the photos you take, all at the same time.

Here are a few of my favorite accessories for my smartphone.

Kenko Clip Lenses

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Not all lenses for smartphones are made alike...

Some don't make good contact with the smartphone camera, meaning you get fuzzy, out of focus results.

Others require you to buy a special phone case so that the lens can attach to it.

Again, this often gets you subpar results because of the lack of a good fit between the phone's lens and the add-on lens.

That's not the case with Kenko's clip lenses, like the wide angle/macro lens shown above.

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As the name indicates, these lenses clip directly onto your phone or another mobile device.

That means that not only is there a tight seal between the two lenses, but they are also incredibly easy to use.

When it comes time to take a quick photo, that ease of use and quickness of installation of the Kenko lens is invaluable.

What's more, Kenko's lenses are well built, using processed glass that renders images clear and sharp.

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It's a versatile lens, too.

With both optical elements attached, it's a 120-degree wide-angle lens ideal for group portraits and landscapes.

Unscrew the top element, though, and you get a macro lens for up-close work.

The lens can even be used as a stand to prop up your phone or tablet.

In other words, don't just get any old smartphone camera lens. Invest in something that gives you the ability to shoot like a pro, with a lens that's versatile for different photo applications and is made to last.

Kenko even makes super-wide, fisheye, and telephoto smartphone lenses to give you that much more variety in terms of how you use your phone to take photos.

Learn more about Kenko smartphone camera lenses.

iBlazr 2 Wireless Flash

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In case you haven't noticed, one of the worst features of your smartphone is the quality of the flash.

Fortunately, you can add a flash to your phone that emits bright, even lighting for improved photos in dim lighting.

The iBlazr 2 Wireless Flash has four LEDs that are color temperature adjustable from 3200K to 5600K. 

That means you can warm up or cool down the lighting to suit your specific needs or tastes.

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Better still, the iBlazr 2 syncs wirelessly with your phone's camera app via Bluetooth 4.0, so there's no wires or need to use your phone's headphone port for power. 

Speaking of syncing, you can sync up to 10 iBlazr 2 flashes to really shine a light on your subject.

Night photography has never been so easy with a smartphone!

Learn more about the iBlazr 2 Wireless Flash.

Manfrotto PIXI Smart Tripod

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Using your smartphone as a full-blown camera means you need to be able to stabilize it when the situation calls for it.

The Manfrotto PIXI Smart Mini Tripod allows you to do just that.

On the one hand, you can use it as a rock-solid tripod so you can get sharper photos.

On the other hand, you can also use the PIXI as a handheld grip, again, giving you the ability to take improved photos because of better stability and grip on your phone.

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The PIXI has a universal clip to accommodate a wide range of phones, too, so when you upgrade your phone, you don't have to worry about compatibility issues with PIXI.

It's also small and portable - just like your phone - so you can bring it along with you in your pocket when it comes time to head out to take photos.

Small, sturdy, versatile. Those are good qualities to have in a smartphone accessory.

Learn more about the Manfrotto PIXI Smart Mini Tripod.

Prynt

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The final component of an ideal smartphone photography kit is a device that allows you to actually print out the photos you take.

Prynt, which is available for various iPhone models, allows you to do just that.

What's great about Prynt is that you can either print old photos you have stored on your phone or you can use it to print out new photos instantly.

There's no ink needed, either, which is great from a cleanliness standpoint.

Instead, Prynt uses ZINK (zero ink) sticker paper. Just peel off the backing and turn your photos into a sticker.

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This gadget also comes with a companion app that allows you to preview and edit your photos using custom filters and frames.

And it's got another neat trick up its sleeve...

Each Prynt sticker has a video embedded inside of it.

Just hand your Prynt to a friend, and they can use their Prynt app to see the video. Cool huh?

If you're looking for a way to make your smartphone photography a bit more fun, Prynt is it!

Learn more about Prynt.

Final Thoughts

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There's no reason why you can't use your smartphone as your primary camera.

With the advancements we've seen the last few years in smartphone lenses, camera apps, and accessories, there is more to make excellent smartphone photos a reality than ever before.

If you're seeking to build an ideal smartphone photography kit, look no further than the accessories I've outlined above and watch your mobile photography come to life!



We Recommend


Basic Essentials for Long Exposure Photography

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If you want to give long exposure photography a try, this is the tutorial for you!

Long exposures are more complex and time-consuming than normal photos, but despite what some beginners think, capturing long exposures doesn't require any additional skills or fancy gear.

In fact, if you know the basics of exposure and composition and you have a tripod, a decent camera, and a neutral density filter, you can create long exposures.

With that in mind, let's go over some of the basics of long exposure photography.

Get Geared Up

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First things first.

You need certain gear to make long exposures a reality.

Obviously you need a DSLR or mirrorless camera and a lens. Since most long exposures are taken of landscapes, a wide-angle lens is a good option.

Additionally, you need a tripod, preferably with features that enhance its stability. That includes a center column hook so you can add weight to act as ballast if the wind picks up and metal spikes on the feet to help the tripod dig into the ground.

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It's also a good idea to pick up two other pieces of gear - a remote and a neutral density filter.

Using a camera remote allows you to start and stop the long exposure without having to touch the camera. The less you touch the camera, the less chance there is for the camera to vibrate.

You want to minimize vibrations because even the slightest bump will cause your long exposure to be impossibly blurry.

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If you want to shoot long exposures during the daytime, you'll also need a high-quality neutral density filter.

ND filters block out sunlight, which allows you to slow the shutter speed down to get the gorgeous blurry movement like you see in the image above.

Without an ND filter, the shutter speeds required to get that kind of blur would be impossible to achieve during the daytime because it would result in a wildly overexposed image.

But not all ND filters are made alike...

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You want to get a high-quality ND filter because it sits in front of your lens and directly impacts the quality of the long exposure.

Formatt-Hitech's Firecrest Ultra Neutral Density Filter is an excellent choice because it's the only professional-grade neutral density filter that's bonded to protect the filter's coating.

That means you get a filter that not only gives you beautiful results, but offers enhanced durability over time.

FCU100ND3.0

What's more, the Firecrest Ultra ND filter is manufactured with a lap and polish technique, which results in incredible neutrality so your images have enhanced clarity, beautiful sharpness, and minimal aberrations.

ND filters aren't just for long exposures, either - you can also use them to create time-lapse videos during the day.

Perhaps best of all, if you get a high-quality filter like the Firecrest Ultra, it's a piece of kit that will last you a very long time.

In other words, it's an investment that will pay off for years and years to come because it's built to last with the finest materials. And, if you want to expand your long exposure photography beyond the dead of night, you absolutely need to pick up a ND filter.

Learn More:

Consider the Weather

When you think about elements that provide interest to a long exposure, you likely think of things like clouds or moving water.

In the case of the former, you want a nice mix of blue skies and clouds, that way you can blur the movement of the clouds and get an ethereal look as seen in the image above.

That means you need to check the weather before you head out, that way you're sure the conditions will be ripe for capturing cloud movement.

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Even if your primary subject is a river, a waterfall, or breakers hitting a beach, you still need to check the weather to ensure it's agreeable for long exposures.

If, for example, there will be very heavy cloud cover and rain, a long exposure isn't going to be that successful.

Likewise, if you head to the beach to capture the breakers rolling in, but you get there at low tide, you won't have much to photograph!

Learn More:

Mind the Composition

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When visualizing your long exposure, you need to bear the basics of composition in mind.

Think about how you can use the Rule of Thirds to create a more balanced and compelling composition.

Ensure that if a horizon line is visible, that it's absolutely level, and use leading lines to connect the foreground to the background, as shown above.

Play with the framing of the shot as well, that way you're sure to get the most pleasing view of the subject. Get your tripod low to the ground or find a high vantage point to get a more interesting view.

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Additionally, don't get caught up in the notion that you're taking a long exposure.

Instead, treat the composition phase of the shot as you would any other.

Pay attention to the details. Concentrate on having a strong, central subject to grab the viewer's attention. Manipulate the speed of the shutter to get different levels of motion blur.

If you can do those things, you'll have a pleasing image as a result.

Learn More:

Final Thoughts

These are just the basic, introductory steps to taking long exposures from a gear standpoint, a planning standpoint, and a composition standpoint.

For more details on each, check the Learn More links throughout this article.

Also be sure to check out the video above by Joshua Cripps, in which he takes you step-by-step through the process of taking daytime long exposures.



We Recommend


Beginner Photography Gear Tips

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When I first started in photography all those years ago, there wasn't the incredible selection of gear that we have today.

I mean, I started on a film camera, so that tells you how old I am...

That isn't to say that we didn't have a variety of cameras, lenses, shoulder straps and bags, tripods, and other accessories back then. It just wasn't as large of an inventory as we have to choose from today.

So, with that in mind, I wanted to share a few gear tips for beginners so you're sure to get what's most likely to help you improve as a photographer.

Buy Lenses, Not Cameras

Assuming that you have budget constraints (if you don't...that's great for you!), you'll need to decide where to put your money.

Some new photographers think that the best place to spend their money is on a new camera, thinking that the fancy rig will greatly improve the quality of their photos.

Well, that's just not the case...

You still have to understand how to use the camera to take a great picture, so the camera body itself has less to do with the quality of your shots than your know-how.

Furthermore, good lenses will do more for your photos than a new camera any day of the week.

Good glass renders sharper images with more detail, improved dynamic range, less aberrations, and so forth.

Good lenses also perform better in low light and can produce better bokeh (the blurry backgrounds you often see in portraits).

mpb

On top of all that, a good lens will last you forever, so it's a great investment, especially if you find high-quality used lenses.

Think about it - good glass is expensive, so if you buy pre-owned, you can stretch your budget and get a great lens without breaking the bank.

For my money, MPB is the place to find great used lenses (and other used gear, too).

In fact, I've bought pre-owned gear from MPB before, and not only was it a great experience, but I saved a ton of money in the process.

That allowed me to get two nice used lenses for about the same price as one of them would have cost me brand-new.

Besides, you can also sell your old gear to MPB and use that money toward making purchases of new-to-you-gear.

So, the moral of the story is to save your money for lenses, not a new camera, and stretch that money as far as possible by buying pre-owned.

Learn More:

Get a Better Camera Strap

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One thing you'll learn very quickly as a new photographer is that the strap that came with your camera is not good.

In fact, it's terrible.

It's flimsy, so it's not something that will stand the test of time.

It's also not comfortable, either, which is a bummer to find out a couple of hours into a photowalk.

They're just not functional, either, always flapping in the breeze and getting in the way when you want to take a photo.

That's why you need to get a better camera strap to solve all those problems.

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A great solution is a SpiderLight Hand Strap by Spider Holster, shown above.

As you can see, the strap hugs your hand in a way that gives you the safety and security you need to carry your camera.

But notice that it's not so tight that it cuts off circulation or is hard to get your hand into it.

On the contrary, the unique contoured design of the strap makes for easy on and off. It also puts the camera in the ideal position in relation to your hand, making for an easier shooting experience.

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That means that you can easily reach all the controls on your mirrorless or small DSLR.

That also means that you have more freedom of movement to take your photos because your camera is right there in your hand without a long shoulder strap to get in the way.

And as you can see in the GIF above, the SpiderLight Hand Strap is made to last.

It's constructed of flexible, yet strong nylon materials that are both flexible and comfortable.

The inside of the strap is lined with soft foam, too, so your hand won't fatigue as you're out taking photos.

In other words, camera straps might not be the first thing you think to buy for your camera, but they can make a world of difference!

Learn More:

Don't Skimp on a Tripod

Remember when I said a good lens is more important to the quality of your photos than a new camera?

Well, along those same lines, a tripod is one of the most important camera accessories you can buy.

That's true whether you take portraits, landscapes or something in between.

Obviously, the primary benefit of a tripod is that it stabilizes your camera. The more stable your camera, the sharper your photos will be.

But beyond that, having a good tripod allows you to expand your creativity into realms that would otherwise be impossible.

That includes things like long exposure photography or time-lapse photography, in which your camera has to be stable for long periods of time.

And don't think that any tripod will do, either, because tripods certainly aren't made alike.

For top-notch tripods, it's hard to beat Vanguard.

Not only are their tripods built to last, but they also have a wide-range of price points so you can find a tripod for your needs that will fit any budget.

What I particularly like about Vanguard tripods is how easy they are to use - which is not something that cheap tripods can claim.

They have legs that are quickly and easily extended and locked into place. Their legs also have multiple locking angles to accommodate varying terrain (or varying compositional needs, like getting a low-angle shot as shown above).

The Vanguard VEO 235AB shown above also has rubber feet to give it a solid base as well as metal spikes in case you're a landscape photographer and need to set up on uneven ground.

It's compact and lightweight, too, making it a great option for photographers that travel a lot or simply want a solid tripod without carrying around a bunch of weight.

This tripod even comes with a ball head, a bubble-level, and an arca-swiss quick release plate.

That means that for a great price, you get a top-shelf tripod with all the bells and whistles you need to improve your photos.

Learn More:

You Need Good Filters, Too

 

If you enjoy landscape photography like I do, there's another piece of kit that you'll want to pick up sooner rather than later - a good set of filters.

Like lenses, not all filters are made alike. By that, I mean that you want to spend a little extra money on getting better quality filters so they help, rather than hinder, the quality of your images.

For landscape photography, there's a few filters you'll want to pick up.

The first one you need is a polarizing filter.

These filters cut down on glare off of things like water, giving your images much-improved visual quality.

They also minimize atmospheric haze and improve the contrast of the sky, resulting in photos with more clarity and pop.

Something else you'll want to pick up is a graduated neutral density filter.

These filters have varying filtering power - they're darker on the top and clear on the bottom - to help even out the dynamic range of landscape photos.

These filters are handy because it allows you to darken the sky (which is often quite bright) and have no effect on the landscape (which is often dark, anyway).

The result of that is that your landscape photos have a much more even exposure and a pleasing look.

Regular neutral density filters are another type of filter you should think about adding to your kit.

These filters have a consistent level of filtering power throughout, which allows you to darken the entire scene.

This comes in handy when you want to use a longer exposure during the daytime, which helps you show movement in your photos, as seen in the blurred waterfall above.

Without a neutral density filter, the image above would be wildly overexposed. If long exposure is something you want to try, this filter is a must.

When looking for filters, I suggest you check out Formatt-Hitech.

These guys know how to make a top-quality filter without busting your budget.

They've got polarizing filters, graduated neutral density filters, neutral density filters, and more. In other words, you can find whatever filter you need at Formatt-Hitech.

And speaking from experience, these filters are impeccably made. Their Firecrest line of filters is especially impressive, which render clear, crisp results without worry of aberrations or color inconsistencies.

Take it from me - your landscape photos will be better if you use good filters!

Learn More:



We Recommend


Beginner Photography Mistakes and Tricks For Avoiding Them

beginner photography tipsPhoto by Jakob Owens on Unsplash

Let's face it - photography can be tough to learn.

Not only is there a lot of technical stuff to learn like what camera settings to use in what situation and how to use artificial lighting, but there's also a ton of artistic considerations to make, too.

That includes how to pose people for portraits, how to use leading lines to create depth in landscape photos, and using unique angles to create eye-catching shots.

And on top of all that is learning what gear to use and what gear is best for you.

It's a lot...

In this guideline, I review critical beginner photography mistakes - most of which I committed at one point or another - in the hopes that I can help you minimize your mistakes and help you learn how to improve your photography.

Beginner Photography Mistake: Using Free Editing Software

Photo by Joseph Pearson on Unsplash

Let me start by saying that while some free editing software - GIMP, for example - is actually quite good, most of it is definitely not.

To make it free, there's often tons of ads for web-based editors and tons of fee-based add-ons for software that you download.

And while that might not sound all that terrible, having reduced functionality and/or annoying ads popping up all the time can severely disrupt your workflow.

Editing is not an optional process - it is an integral component of creating dynamic, beautiful photos.

As such, get yourself the real deal - Lightroom, Photoshop, and so on - and avoid the beginner photography mistake of using free software that just doesn't cut it.

Editor's Tip: The worst part of using Lightroom is manually tagging your photos. Learn how to use AI to tag and organize the photos in your Lightroom libraries.

The Focus is Off

beginner photography mistakesPhoto by Michael Amadeus on Unsplash

While today's cameras have incredible autofocus systems, they aren't infallible.

This is especially true in situations in which you're shooting through something - like the foliage in the foreground of the image above.

Instead of focusing on the model, in autofocus mode, the camera will likely focus instead on the plants in the foreground. This is a problem that is impossible to fix in post-processing, so learning how to avoid this mistake in-camera is critical.

It's pretty easy to get around, too.

Perhaps the easiest way to accurately focus on the subject is to select the autofocus point yourself, that way you're sure that the camera is focusing precisely where you want.

This is done differently depending on your camera system, but this tutorial offers a great general overview of camera focus modes and what you can do to increase your chances of getting the focus just right. You can also learn how to control the focus points on your camera in the video above by Photo Genius.

Skimping on Your Camera Strap

Image Credit: Brandon Burk

Back in the day when I got my first DSLR, I thought the camera strap that came with it was just fine.

But as I got more and more involved in photography and spent more time out shooting, I quickly realize how incredibly uncomfortable that strap actually was.

It cut into my shoulder like nobody's business, and as the hours dragged on, I simply didn't want to shoot anymore.

So, I set out to find a better camera strap.

Over the years I tried out dozens of straps. Some of them were terrible. Others were okay. And a few have been excellent.

Image Credit: Brandon Burk

One of the best straps I've used yet is the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo shown above.

It's ideal for beginner photographers because it's incredibly comfortable, so you can shoot forever without getting fatigued.

It's also made of full-grain leather and has stainless steel hardware, so it's a durable strap that will last you for years and years to come.

But on top of all that, this thing is crazy functional. It has a stabilizer strap to keep the shoulder pad in place and also has a belt anchor that allows you to carry your camera on your hip and keep it there - unless you release the anchor, the camera stays put, even if you're bending over!


Image Credit: Brandon Burk 

One of the first things that beginner photographers buy is a new camera, and that's totally fine.

But I've learned that the accessories you use can make a huge impact on your ability to take photos.

Believe it or not, a camera strap is one such item.

Don't make the mistake I made and try dozens of straps (and pay for dozens of straps). Instead, invest in the best and get yourself a Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo!

Learn More:

Not Understanding the Basics of Photography

You have to start somewhere when learning how to improve your photography, and your starting point should be with the very basics.

Before you ever pick up a camera and start to take photos, there's a few things you can do to build a solid foundation upon which you can learn:

  • Read your camera's owner's manual. Yes, boring I know, but beneficial nonetheless.
  • Learn basic photography terms. Try this comprehensive list.
  • Think about why you want to take photos. If you can identify an underlying purpose, you can more readily direct your learning about photography.
  • Check out photos from other people. Doing so helps you identify what you like and don't like, and can inform you of the types of photography you want to pursue.

These are super easy tasks that you can knock out in a few minutes a day over the course of a week.

And once you really start going with photography, don't be afraid to seek feedback and ask for help from other photographers!

Buying New Lenses

One of the best things you can do to improve your ability to take better photos is to invest in better lenses.

Don't get me wrong - the kit lens that likely came with your camera is just fine to learn with. But those lenses have their limitations that better lenses don't.

I'm a big fan of every beginner photographer investing in a 50mm f/1.8 lens for that reason.

These lenses are versatile, durable, and perform well in low-light situations. They can also be used for videography, so they pull double-duty.

The mistake that people make when buying lenses is that they buy brand new lenses.

Buying lenses is sort of like buying a car - if you buy new, you'll pay a lot more and its value will quickly depreciate.

However, if you buy used lenses, you can't save a ton of money and still get a lens that has a lot of life left in it. In fact, you might be able to find lenses cheap enough that you can get a couple of them for the same price as one new one.

So, avoid the rookie mistake of buying new lenses and instead find great deals on used ones.

But don't just hop on Craigslist or eBay to do so.

Instead, use services like Lensfinder, which was made by photographers, for photographers.

Think about it - Lensfinder has nothing but lenses, so you don't have to sift through a million unrelated products like you do on eBay.

What's more, Lensfinder is a one-stop shop, so you can search for the lens you want, ask the seller questions, pay for the lens, and leave feedback for the seller, all in one place.

It's just a simple, easy, secure way to get better gear and get it on the cheap!

Editor's Tip: Confused by all those markings on your lens? Learn what lens markings mean so you can get the most out of your photos.

Not Investing in a Polarizing Filter

Far and away, one of the best things you can add to your photography kit is a polarizing filter. That's especially true if you photograph landscapes.

Polarizing filters do amazing things for your photographs...

On the one hand, they minimize glare off of non-metallic surfaces, like water or wet foliage. That means that without the distracting glare, viewers can more thoroughly enjoy the scene you've captured.

On the other hand, polarizing filters also reduce atmospheric haze, so even though the distant mountain peaks look hazy to you, with a polarizing filter, your image of those same mountains will look crystal clear.

And that's not all - polarizers also boost contrast in the sky (as shown above), so any clouds in the shot will appear a brighter white while the blue atmosphere will be deeper and more robust.

That makes polarizing filters one of the most versatile photography accessories you can buy!

But don't just buy any old filter...

how to improve your photography

Cheap filters are a huge mistake because slapping a cheap piece of poorly made glass in front of your lens isn't going to enhance the images you take. Instead, it will merely detract from your images.

If you want a high-quality polarizing filter without breaking the bank, I highly recommend Formatt-Hitech polarizers.

These things are made to the highest standards with quality materials that not only make them durable but ensure high-performance, too.

With Formatt-Hitech's Firecrest anti-reflective coating, these filters offer you the highest contrast and fidelity for your images.

The glass is encased in a SuperSlim or UltraSlim rotating polarizer ring that's precision milled. That means they're easy to use, will help you improve your photography, and will last you a good long while as well!

Being Afraid

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Starting out in photography can be scary, especially when it comes to trying new things.

One of the worst things you can do as a beginner photographer is be afraid to get out there and take photos.

Whether you love portraits or landscapes, street photography or macro, or something in between, try your best to challenge yourself to find new and interesting ways to take photos.

That might simply be finding unique angles or just trying a different type of photography for a while.

The point is that there is always something to learn in photography, so don't be afraid to try new things, to mess up, and to take some epically bad photos.

You'll learn just as much - if not more - from your unsuccessful photos as you will from the good ones!

Learn More:

Not Completing the Process of Creating a Beautiful Image

I mentioned earlier that post-processing isn't an option - it's a critical component of creating a great photo.

But even once your image is completely edited, there still should be another step for your very best images - printing them.

Digital photography has been great in so many ways, not the least of which is opening photography to so many more people.

But in the digital age, we often take photos and forget them on our hard drives or cloud storage accounts. That's a mistake.

Excellent quality printing, superior build quality and A+ customer service. I wish I came to you first before trying others. Thanks CanvasHQ! - Eric S., Haverhill, MA

Your best images deserve to have a place on your wall where you and others can enjoy your handiwork.

But just like so many things in photography, trying to take the cheap way out is a big mistake.

I have dozens and dozens of prints in my home, most of which came from my favorite printer, CanvasHQ.

They're my go-to printer for a ton of reasons, not the least of which is the quality of the materials they use.

We're talking about archive-quality canvas, kiln-dried frames, and top-of-the-line inks that resist UV rays, water, and scratches.

 

Aside from the impeccable quality of these prints, I also appreciate how quickly CanvasHQ gets them made.

Often, I get my prints on my doorstep just a couple of days after placing my order. That's crazy considering I live in California and CanvasHQ is in Arkansas!

On top of that, the folks at CanvasHQ are just genuinely nice people that care about each customer. They make you feel as though you're they're top priority, and they treat your images with the love and respect that a dear friend would.

That dedication to quality and service should be enough to convince you that these guys deserve your business, but it gets even better...

CanvasHQ is affordable!

I cannot believe how easy it was to get my canvas from Canvas HQ! I submitted my photo on a Wednesday and my canvas was at my door on Saturday! And it was absolutely perfect! I will definitely order from Canvas HQ again! - Kara O., Manchester, IA

Their prints start at just $20, and if you ask me, that's a small price to pay for a gorgeous print of your photos.

It's just one more thing worth investing in, and another way that you can improve your photography while minimizing silly beginner mistakes, too!



We Recommend


Businesses That Will Innovate Photography in 2018

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I don't know about you, but I'm incredibly excited about the direction that photography is headed.

We're seeing more innovation than ever in cameras, lenses, and other photography gear, which gives us more power to create epic photos.

Post-processing programs are evolving into highly powerful editing suites that allow us to take our photography to the next level more quickly and efficiently.

We're even seeing changes in how we buy and sell photography equipment, share our photos, and market our businesses.

It's exciting times, for sure!

Here's some of the top businesses in the photography industry that are leading the charge in innovating the artform we love so much.

Sew Trendy Fashion & Accessories

Legacy Photography

Sew Trendy started humbly in a basement just a few years ago.

Today, it's one of the premier wardrobe manufacturers for maternity photography, girls' photography, and newborn photography.

Their success in growing their business is attributable to many different factors, not the least of which that they constantly develop new designs for their line of maternity gowns, girls dresses, and newborn clothing, so photographers have fresh looks to offer their clients.

And in an age in which customer service is often lacking, Sew Trendy certainly bucks the trend. They're with you every step of the way, ready, willing, and able to help you with any questions or concerns you might have.

Valerie Best, the company's Founder and CEO has a lot to do with the success of her company as well.

She's committed to quality, and that shows in every handmade garment that leaves her company's warehouse.

Learn more about Sew Trendy Fashion & Accessories

Sirui

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Over the years, Sirui has built a reputation for manufacturing some of the best photography tripods on the market.

I can attest to the quality of their tripods, as I own one!

But Sirui is much more than a tripod company...

They supply photographers the world over with high-quality gear that ranges from monopods to tripod heads, camera bags to lens filters, and even photography accessories for your mobile phone.

As if that's not enough, Sirui also offers a complete line of humidity cabinets, broadcast tripods, and various quick release plates, too.

In other words, Sirui is a one-stop shop for just about all your photography needs, and is definitely a company to keep your eye on in 2018.

Learn more about Sirui

CaptureLife

When talking about innovative photography companies that are sure to turn the photography world on its head in 2018, CaptureLife should immediately come to mind.

If you're not familiar with CaptureLife, check this out...

This app allows you to share photos with your clients right on their smartphone.

That means you can streamline how you get photos to clients as well as make it a more personalized process - the images are delivered via a branded text message that's personalized to the client.

On top of that, CaptureLife is a sales platform that allows your clients to order prints right from their phone. They can also share their photos with friends and family, which increases your sales footprint.

Mobile is the future, and if you're in the photography business, you need to capitalize on that by teaming up with CaptureLife!

Learn more about CaptureLife

Click Props

One of the challenges of staying relevant in the photography industry is keeping your ear to the pulse of what photographers need.

Click Props does just that.

With a huge collection of gorgeous portrait backgrounds, Click Props gives photographers the ability to create more impactful portraits no matter who the subject might be.

Aside from their commitment to crafting the best backgrounds in the business, Click Props understands the practical needs of photographers as well.

They offer backgrounds in various sizes, each of which is easy to setup and takedown. They're even easy to clean and easy to store, too.

That means you spend less time messing around getting things setup and stored away, and more time actually taking photos.

What's not to like about that?

Learn more about Click Props

Vanguard

Another company that's sure to make waves in 2018 is Vanguard.

I've been a fan of Vanguard for years now, and I can tell you firsthand that in the last couple of years, they've really stepped up their game with their product line.

In particular, their tripods and camera bags are among the best in the business, not just because they have innovative features that make photography easier and more efficient, but because their products are budget-friendly as well.

That means that Vanguard has figured out a way to offer photographers the best of both worlds - high-value, well-made products that won't break the bank.

Vanguard is at the tip of the spear of innovation in photography. If you aren't excited to see what they come up with in 2018, you should be!

Learn more about Vanguard

Artbeat Studios

Photography isn't just about the gear you use, nor is it just about your skills in composition, framing, post-processing and the like.

Instead, the process of creating an image isn't truly complete until you have a gorgeous print. That's where Artbeat Studios comes in.

I came across Artbeat Studios last year, and after touring their facility, I was blown away by their process and the products they make.

Among their best sellers are their acrylic and metal HD prints, the latter of which you can see in the photo above.

To say that Artbeat's prints are gorgeous is an understatement. What they produce is truly fine art.

That's because they're committed to using archival materials, paying close attention to color fidelity, and providing custom services so you get the exact print you want.

If you're looking to revolutionize the way your photos look, give Artbeat Studios a try!

Learn more about Artbeat Studios

Uniregistry

gofind pics

One of the best things about the photography industry is that there are so many companies doing so many awesome things for photographers.

In 2018, I strongly suggest that you change the way you market your photography business by partnering with Uniregistry.

These guys have two domains - .pics and .photo - that will help you get more eyes on your photos and more clients knocking on your door.

Why?

gofind photo

It's simple - Uniregistry's domains are photography specific, so you can promote your work on your website with a professional and credible domain name.

Not only do .pics and .photo domains tell the world exactly what you do right there in the URL, but they're fresh and new, so the chances of you getting the exact name you want are much greater.

It's just a better way to market yourself on today's crowded internet!

Learn more about .pics and .photo domains

MPB

mpb

Let's face it...

Photography gear can be expensive, and all that expense is cost-prohibitive if you're on a budget.

But MPB has changed the way that photographers buy gear because they've created an extensive marketplace where you can find high-quality pre-owned gear for excellent prices.

Not only that, you can sell your old gear to MPB and either pocket the money or get a credit toward the purchase of something on their site.

That means you can refresh your kit from time to time by getting rid of what you no longer want or need and replace it with well-priced, pre-owned gear for less.

Stretch your budget. Get more gear for less. Get better gear for less, too. Not bad, right?

Learn more about MPB

SHUTTERbag

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Not that long ago, there was a lack of photography gear specially designed for female photographers.

But in 2010, that all changed when SHUTTERbag was founded.

SHUTTERbag specializes in crafting leather camera bags for women that are beautiful and functional, too. 

This commitment to quality is evident in every SHUTTERbag model. 

For mom photographers on the go, SHUTTERbag offers the Girls Day Out bag (shown top left, above). 

This ingenious camera bag has three separate compartments - one for your camera gear and two zippered compartments for things like a tablet for business tasks and books, toys, diapers and other items for your kids.

Like all SHUTTERbag models, the Girls Day Out is the height of form and function.

It’s an ideal size for daily use, and with its built-in organizational aids, you can keep your photography stuff separate from your personal items with ease. 

That means you can grab your camera, your phone or a diaper at a moment’s notice. 

Now that’s how you get more production out of your day!

SHUTTERbag’s Trailblazer bag (shown top right, above) is another example of commitment to innovation.

This bag has a unique style and flair that make a strong fashion statement, but don’t think that this bag is just about looking good… 

Inside, you’ll find room for a camera body and up to four lenses. Alternatively, you can carry two camera bodies and three lenses. There’s even a spot for your tablet or laptop!

With padded dividers that are removable and adjustable, you can truly customize this bag to suit your specific needs.

For mid-range carrying capacity, SHUTTERbag designed the Heirloom 5-in-1 bag (shown bottom left, above).

Not only can this bag accommodate a camera, three lenses, and up to a 15-inch laptop, but it can also be carried in a variety of ways - as a tote bag, a messenger bag, a shoulder bag or even as a backpack.

Talk about innovation! 

Their Journey bag (shown bottom right, above) is a tote bag that’s made of genuine leather and features a breathable cotton lining that provides a soft surface for your gear inside the bag.

The Journey has a detachable strap that has a slip-resistant shoulder pad that gives you confidence when carrying your bag either over the shoulder or across your body. 

The bag can easily accommodate a camera with a 70-200mm lens attached, as well as a laptop, a tablet, camera accessories, and personal items like your checkbook and smartphone as well.

And as if their bags aren’t enough to impress, consider this - SHUTTERbag is a small business, so they treat their customers like family.

That means that you not only get to choose from a wide array of incredible camera bags, but you know that you’ll get the service you deserve before, during, and after the sale, too.

Learn more about SHUTTERbag.

nPhoto

When you think of photo albums, you might think that they're all the same or that there's not much room for improvement.

But you'd be wrong.

nPhoto has proven that by becoming one of the top producers of photo albums and other products in the world.

Their handcrafted albums, triplexes, photo boxes, and other products are second-to-none in the industry.

nPhoto uses the best materials to construct their products, from fine textiles and leatherettes for their album covers to silk and metallic papers that give each page of their albums a hefty, crisp, and expensive feel.

What's more, nPhoto gives you plentiful options for customizing their albums, so you can get something that's truly your own or tailored to your clients' specific tastes.

Taking great photos is only half the battle - how you present them matters, too. If you work with nPhoto, you'll certainly have the presentation aspect of it down pat.

Learn more about nPhoto

MyStudio

51zafgPNkqL. SL1200

The MS20PRO 20”x20”x12” tabletop photo studio by MyStudio is an ideal accessory to help you take your product photography to the next level.

Unlike many other tabletop studios, this one offers a seamless cyclorama infinity background with 90-degree corners that gives you many more shooting angles to highlight the products that you’re photographing.

The studio comes with dual 5000k color-corrected daylight fluorescent lamps, which offer tons of light for your images while providing excellent color as well. 

MyStudio also includes 9”x12” white and black bounce/fill cards with easel stands to create nice, even lighting, and a pair of 9.5”x11.5” white and black reflective acrylic panels to create beautiful reflections beneath the products you photograph. 

The folks at MyStudio have even produced a series of instructional videos that are available on their YouTube page to get you going with your new photo studio!

Learn more about MyStudio

MrStarGuy

I only became familiar with MrStarGuy in the latter half of last year, but they quickly became one of my favorite photography companies.

For starters, MrStarGuy is an authority on astrophotography gear - no matter what you need, whether it's a scope, a mount, a tripod, or something in between, MrStarGuy has what you need.

Secondly, these guys offer their high-quality products for prices that you can actually afford. You get tons of bang for your buck, which isn't always the case in photography.

But maybe most importantly, this family-owned business is committed to service before, during, and after the sale.

They're genuine folks that want their customers to feel like old friends.

If you're excited to expand your photography horizons this year and tackle some night sky photography, be sure to visit MrStarGuy to get all the gear you need.

Learn more about MrStarGuy

DJI

When I think about where photography is headed in the future, I can't help but think of drone photography.

And when I think of drones, DJI comes to mind.

DJI has some of the very best drones in the business. That's true whether you're a beginner drone photographer or an experienced veteran.

What makes DJI's drones so great is that they're packed with features - like collision avoidance systems and gesture-based flight controls.

Additionally, there are a plethora of options, upgrades, and add-ons that you can use to customize your drone to get the ideal flying and photographic experience.

As drones become more and more popular for photography, you can bet that DJI will be leading the charge in innovating how drones are built and how they perform.

Learn more about DJI

Macphun/Skylum

Macphun has been around awhile, and they've developed a reputation as one of the best in the software business.

As they rebrand and become Skylum, it's important to note that this small team of software experts continues to make waves in the photography industry.

In fact, they've won tons of awards over the years for their products, most recently for their impeccable Aurora HDR 2018, which was named by Apple as the app of the year for 2017.

Considering how many apps there are these days, that's quite the achievement!

Speaking of achievements, with Macphun's software, like the aforementioned Aurora HDR, as well as their Luminar 2018, you can achieve great things with your images.

Not only that, but you can create better-looking photos in less time and with less effort, all within platforms that are smartly designed and give you an effortless workflow.

My goal this year is to do a better job of processing my images, and with Macphun by my side, I have no doubt that I will achieve that goal.

Learn more about Macphun/Skylum

Lensfinder

lensfinder

Have you ever wanted a new lens but just couldn't bring yourself to shell out the kind of money needed to get truly high-quality glass?

Well, that worry is over now that Lensfinder is on the scene.

Lensfinder is a marketplace where - you guessed it - you can find lenses for great prices.

If you're looking for a rare or high-end lens (or everyday lenses, for that matter), you can use Lensfinder's easy search tools to locate what you need.

Then, you can communicate with the seller, ask questions, and even pay for your new-to-you lens via PayPal, right there within Lensfinder.

You can also sell the lenses you no longer want, too, so it's the best of both worlds.

Lensfinder has built-in fraud protections, seller feedback ratings, and other smart tools that help make your transaction as smooth as possible.

If you want to upgrade your kit this year, check out Lensfinder!

Learn more about Lensfinder.

Spider Holster

My biggest complaint about cameras is the terrible strap that comes with them at purchase.

The OEM straps are thin, uncomfortable, and just plain get in the way when you're trying to take photos.

That's why Spider Holster is such a game-changer, because they're responsible for getting your camera off your shoulders and onto your hips where you can carry your cameras with greater ease and security.

Just looking at the photo above, you can imagine how much more streamlined your workflow would be if you're using a Spider Holster.

You can carry one camera or two using the Spider Pro (for big DSLRs) or the SpiderLight (for compact, mirrorless, or small DSLR cameras).

They even make hand straps that put your camera right in your hand in the ideal shooting position, all without a long strap always getting in your way.

Spider Holster has revolutionized how to carry cameras. In 2018, I strongly recommend that you let Spider Holster revolutionize the way you work.

Learn more about Spider Holster

Next Insurance

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When many people hear the word "insurance," they cringe.

But who can blame them? Buying insurance has historically been a process that's time-consuming and frustrating.

Not now.

Next Insurance has changed how photographers purchase insurance because they've cut out the middleman.

Instead of dealing with a broker, you can visit Next Insurance's website, get a free quote, and get the coverage you need faster and for less money.

By cutting costs, Next Insurance is able to pass those savings on to their customers, so you can get the best coverage without breaking the bank.

From equipment protection to liability for damages to advertising claims, Next Insurance has policies and coverages that will ensure your business will prosper for years to come.

Learn more about Next Insurance

CanvasHQ

Canvas is one of the oldest mediums that artists use for their work.

But, boy, is it still a gorgeous way to print your photos!

That's especially true if you order canvas prints from CanvasHQ.

Like many of the companies on this list, CanvasHQ demonstrates a commitment to crafting the highest-quality products using the finest materials.

And because of that, their canvases look like a million bucks. I should know - I have several in my house!

CanvasHQ gives you a mountain of options to customize your prints, and each print comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

These guys are a small family business, so when you order your canvas, you'll feel like a member of the family, not just another customer.

If that's not enough to convince you to buy from CanvasHQ, I don't know what will!

Learn more about CanvasHQ

Syrp

Syrp Genie Mini Panorma

If filmmaking is your passion, then you need to see what Syrp has to offer in 2018.

As one of the most innovative companies in the photography industry, Syrp is always at the leading edge of what's new for filmmakers.

Their line of products helps videographers of all skill levels and experience to create breathtaking films.

Their Genie Mini motion control device (shown above) - which gives you control over your camera to create time-lapse videos using your cell phone - is just one of their incredible products.

They also have sliders, filters, ball heads, motion control bundles, and much more, so you can get outfitted for filmmaking quickly and without spending a ton of money, either.

Never before has making time-lapses and real-time videos been so easy!

Learn more about Syrp

Microsoft

I fully admit that I've been an Apple enthusiast for quite some time.

However, my love affair with Apple has waned in the last few years, and that's thanks to Microsoft.

Even though it's a household name and one of the largest companies in the world, Microsoft still approaches the process of creating products the same way - with the end-user in mind.

In particular, their Surface line of products is especially impressive for photographers because they have technologies that make the daily grind of business easier and make things like post-processing a more efficient process as well.

With touch-enabled screens, innovative tools like the Surface Pen and Surface Dial, and machines that are stocked with technology that makes them faster, more efficient, and with more battery life, there's a lot to love about what Microsoft is doing with the Surface product line.

If you want to maximize your workflow, consider seeing what Microsoft can do for you.

Learn more about Microsoft

Wolverine Data

wolverine data 1

Sometimes, being innovative means helping bring the past into the present.

That’s precisely what Wolverine Data does. 

Their new Wolverine 8mm & Super8 Reels to Digital MovieMaker is a fully automated gadget that digitizes all those old 3, 5, 7 and 9-inch film reels into high-quality movies at 1080p. 

It’s a standalone machine that handles the frame-by-frame conversion without the need for software or drivers, or even a computer. The film scans directly to the machine where it’s saved to a SD/SDHC card (not included). The entire process requires just a few steps to complete.

The resulting movies are compatible with all Windows, Mac, and Linux systems, and you can playback the digitized movies directly to a TV with the included TV cable.

If you don’t have tons of old film reels collecting dust on a shelf in your house, I’m willing to bet you know someone that does...

Instead of letting those films degrade and take family memories along with them, this year, use Wolverine Data’s innovative new movie maker to convert your films to digital before those memories are lost forever!

Learn more about Wolverine Data

MyStudio

US31 train 1200x

This company is so impressive, I decided to put them on this list twice!

If you photograph products that are bigger than what the MyStudio MS20PRO can accommodate, the MyStudio US31 tabletop photo studio is the perfect choice.

Measuring 31”x19”x16”, it gives you plenty of room to maneuver your products, and true to form, MyStudio has ensured that from every angle, your images benefit from a gorgeous infinity background.

This tabletop studio features two color corrected, 5000K ultra bright LED lights that bathe the studio (and your products) in bright, clean, even light. These lamps are so bright, in fact, that you don’t need any additional lighting whatsoever. Just set up the studio, place your products inside, and you’re ready to go!

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You can see just how clean and even the lighting is in the sample photo I took of my camera gear and bag. 

I took that image when I was at Photo Plus 2017. I had the pleasure of seeing the folks from MyStudio while I was there, and managed to closely inspect the craftsmanship and materials used in their US31 studio. 

They clearly took no shortcuts in the quality of materials used or in the build quality. The design allows for even distribution of light, and quick set up. In short, I was more than impressed with the US31 Studio! 

Learn more about MyStudio

Joy

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One of the downers about taking photos is that eventually you run out of room to display them.

But the Joy Smart Photo Album takes care of that issue...

It's not your everyday digital photo album, either. Instead, Joy is a storytelling device that allows you to connect with your friends, family, and loved ones because it has voice notes that allow you to narrate each photo memory. You can even conduct voice calls between two Joy devices and share a screen so you can share memories together with loved ones that are far away.

The great thing about Joy is that it doesn't have to remain on the shelf or table - you can take it with you to the couch to enjoy up-close.

And when you aren't enjoying the photo album in your lap, it has a wireless charging stand that charges its batteries and displays your photos in slideshow mode.

Joy has a companion mobile and web app that allows you to load new albums and even invite friends and family to add their photos for display. You can easily pull photos from social media as well.

And with a 13.3-inch full HD display, your photos will look beautiful, too!

Learn more about Joy

Holdfast

One of the hallmarks of a great photo is attention to detail - ensuring that each aspect of the image is perfect.

Well, that sentiment holds true for photography gear, and there's no one better at the details than Holdfast.

These guys make some of the most incredible camera bags I've ever seen. And that's saying a lot because I've owned plenty of great bags over the years.

But what sets Holdfast apart is that attention to detail I mentioned, as well as the amazing materials they use to craft their bags and other products.

We're talking about bridle leather, water buffalo leather, American bison leather, and even python skin.

On top of that, Holdfast's products are smartly designed so you can carry more gear, more efficiently, all while keeping each piece of kit safe and secure.

If you're looking to upgrade your camera bag in 2018, look no further than Holdfast.

Learn more about Holdfast

Alpine Labs

When you talk about companies that have revolutionized how you take photos, Alpine Labs has to be in the conversation...

Their Pulse camera remote - and now their new Spark camera remote - have made taking great still photos, time lapse videos, long exposures, and real-time videos much easier and more accessible to even novice photographers.

These gadgets are packed full of powerful software and hardware that literally make it possible for you to create a time lapse video with just a few presses and swipes on your mobile phone.

Creating long exposures is equally as easy.

But don't think that because Alpine Labs has made things easy that their products are somehow cut-rate.

These are the best camera remotes on the market, and Alpine Labs is constantly making them better. That just makes me wonder what they have in store for us in 2018!

Learn more about Alpine Labs



We Recommend


Can’t-Miss Landscape Photography Tips That Will Have an Immediate Impact on Your Photos

landscape photography

I don't know about you, but landscape photography is an escape for me.

I love grabbing my camera and heading to the beach or the mountains or places in between to see what gorgeous pictures of landscapes that I can create.

But for many photographers (myself included), the beautiful scenes we see with our eyes don't always translate into the image we take.

With these landscape photography tips, I think you'll find it more likely that what you photograph matches what you see.

Use Different Lenses for Landscape Photography

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I don't typically advocate for buying more gear because I think that with the basic essentials (more on that in a minute) that you can take some stellar photos.

But when it comes to lenses, you do a disservice to your photos if you only shoot with one focal length.

Most of us have kit lenses that give us a decent variety of wide-angle to standard views, but if you want to expand the possibilities for your photos even more, picking up a second or third lens is a great way to do that.

 A typical kit lens has an 18-55mm focal range, which on an APS-C camera is more in the range of 27-83mm of effective focal length (though that will vary depending upon your camera's crop factor).

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The point is that since many photographers shoot with crop sensor cameras, they don't really get that wide-angle view out of their kit lens.

So, if you ask me, getting a wider lens, like a 12mm or 14mm is a must for APS-C shooters.

Though it might not seem like a huge difference, a 12mm lens on a crop sensor camera acts like an 18mm (or so) lens, giving you about 30 more degrees of view over a typical kit lens (though, again, this varies).

That means you can capture the grandeur of a landscape more effectively because you can document more of the scene than you otherwise could.

Learn More:

Get Good Filters

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Many, many years ago, when I started in photography, I ordered a set of no-name filters off of Amazon.

I didn't know any better at the time, but my poor choice in filters soon became apparent when the image quality of my photos was greatly diminished.

Had I done some research prior to the purchase, I would've known that the quality of the glass you put in front of your lens has a marked impact on the quality of your images.

Fortunately, I only spent about $25 for a UV filter, a circular polarizer, and a neutral density filter, so I wasn't out much money.

Don't make the same mistake, though.

Firecrest Circular Polarizer

When it comes to high-quality photo filters, it's like getting a high-quality lens.

Filters like those from Formatt-Hitech are constructed with Firecrest anti-reflective multicoating, which means the images you take will have much-improved color fidelity and contrast.

With that added punch, you can more accurately convey what the scene looks like in real life in your photos.

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That's especially true if you use a Firecrest Circular Polarizer, because they help boost the contrast in the sky while minimizing glare off of non-metallic surfaces.

In fact, if you add one filter to your kit, make it a polarizer because it also reduces atmospheric haze, making distant landscape elements appear more crisp and clean in the shot.

Firecrest ND Grad Filters

Another must-have filter for landscape photographers is a graduated neutral density filter.

These filters are made for the express purpose of helping you even out the dynamic range in your photos, that way you don't have an overly bright sky with a dark foreground.

The filtering power is on the top of the filter (as shown above), thereby darkening the sky without impacting the foreground. These filters transition from dark to light either very gradually (a soft-edge grad) or very quickly (a hard-edge grad).

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A soft-edge grad is great for landscapes that don't have an abrupt horizon, that way you can't see the transition from filtered to unfiltered. But if there's a strong horizon, like looking out at the ocean, a hard-edge grad is perfect because you can align the transition of the filter with the horizon to get a perfect shot.

Either way, the result is an image that retains all the detail in the sky and the foreground, but without all the complications of having to stack multiple exposures together.

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There are other filters you can add to your kit later on - a UV filter to protect your lens glass, a neutral density filter pack to take long exposures like the one shown above, and a reverse graduated neutral density filter to help you take better sunrise or sunset photos among them.

But for now, if you're just starting out, a polarizer and a graduated neutral density filter will suit you just fine and help you perfect your landscape photography technique.

Learn More:

Add Light

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Don't think that your work is done when the sun dips below the horizon.

Adding light to a landscape during dusk or at night is a fun way to get more unique images, add an interesting layer to your shots, and extend your learning with regard to how to take landscape photos.

You can do this by lighting up the scene with your car headlights or a flashlight, or aiming a headlamp towards the sky for a cool effect. You can build a fire and get some intimate shots of its glow illuminating trees around it as well.

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The light you use doesn't even have to be seen to have an awesome effect.

If you have a tent handy, just turn on a lantern, head outside, and capture the bright color of the tent cast against the darkness of the surrounding landscape.

Taking photos like this is also a good foray into mastering the challenges of shooting at night.

The next step is to learn how to tackle astrophotography, and then you'll really be in for a landscape photography treat!

Use these quick tips for landscape photography to immediately improve your images, and the more you use them, the more impact your photos will have.

Learn More:



We Recommend


Cheap Nikon Lenses That Offer Amazing Image Quality for the Price

cheap nikon lensesPhoto by Connor Hancovsky on Unsplash

Looking for a cheap Nikon lens? You've clicked in the right article...

When buying an inexpensive lens, you don't want to sacrifice quality. That's the crux of the issue. Often, you can find cheap lenses, but they don't offer very good performance.

On the other hand, many top-shelf Nikon lenses are hugely expensive.

But there are some gems out there that perform well and won't cause your wallet to scream, either.

Here's just a sampling of some of the best budget-friendly Nikon lenses.

Editor's Tip: Need a new lens but don't have the cash to buy brand-new? Find great deals on pre-owned Nikon lenses.

Best Cheap Nikon Lens: 50mm f/1.8D

best cheap nikon lens

It doesn't get much simpler than this little 50mm lens, and that's one of the reasons why it's such a great addition to any Nikon shooter's camera bag.

With a big f/1.8 aperture you can more easily photograph subjects in low-light situations. It produces beautiful bokeh as well, which is great for separating portrait subjects from the background.

This lens has a Super Integrated Coating that's applied to individual lens elements, which reduced lens flare as well as ghosting for cleaner, crisper results.

Likewise, this lens offers superb color accuracy and contrast, even when shooting in challenging lighting conditions.

Though it was designed for use with Nikon's full frame FX camera bodies, it can also be used on crop sensor DX bodies, which gives this lens an effective focal length of 75mm. With all those features, the $132.00 price tag is pretty astonishing.

For further details about this awesome little lens, check out the video above by Eric Rossi.

Best Budget Nikon Zoom: 70-300mm f/4-5.6G

best budget nikon zoom

As good of a deal as the Nikon 50mm is, this 70-300mm zoom lens might be an even better buy from a price standpoint.

Brand-new, these lenses go for just $134.00 (and even less if you can find a used one!). Given that it has a massive zoom range of 70-300mm, that's a steal.

While this lens isn't going to win any awards for best lens ever made, it's still a solid rig that will help you get great photos.

nikon 70 300mm

You have to love the versatility of a zoom like this - at 70mm, you can take nice-looking portraits. At 300mm, you can fill the frame with far-off subjects. And there's a ton of variance in between.

There are 13 lens elements in nine groups, and like the 50mm lens discussed above, this one also has Super Integrated Coating to keep ghosting and flare to a minimum.

The lens has a fast-acting autofocus system that's surprisingly precise. Manual focus is also available for those occasions when you need to be in control of focusing.

To top it off, for a lens with this zoom range, it's got a small form factor and it's lightweight, which makes it a great lens for travel photography.

Editor's Tip: Not sure if a zoom lens or a prime lens is for you? Use this guide to decide the best lens for your photography.

Best Inexpensive Nikon Wide-Angle Lens: 28mm f/2.8D

nikon 28mm f2.8

If you're a landscape photographer and you want a dedicated prime lens for wide-angle shots, it's hard to go wrong with the Nikon 28mm f/2.8.

For starters, it's small, compact, and lightweight, so it's easy to get in and out of your camera bag, and if you're hiking around looking for the ideal spot to take a photo, you don't have to worry about it sticking out so far from your camera that it will get caught on trees and other objects.

Though the f/2.8 aperture isn't as large as those on the other lenses noted above, it's still plenty big for typical landscapes and nature photos.

Again, we find Nikon's Super Integrated Coating to help the lens control lens flare and ghosting.

The result are images that have gorgeous colors and beautiful contrast, even when photographing in bright mid-day sun or backlit conditions.

When used on a DX crop sensor camera, this lens has an effective focal length of 42mm for a nice standard or normal view of the subject.

For more details about this and other great Nikon lens buys, see the video above by The Angry Photographer.

Bonus Tip: Put Good Glass in Front of Your Lenses

kenko polarizer

One of the best pieces of advice I can give to photographers that are looking at new lenses is to be sure to save some money to buy some good filters for those lenses.

There's really no point in getting a nice lens if you just put a cheap filter in front of it. After all, the light has to come through the filter first, so if it's of poor quality, it will negate the gains you make by having a nicer lens.

And just like you can find some good lenses that are easy on your budget, you can do the same with lens filters.

kenko filter

I've tested Kenko lens filters now for a couple of months, and for the money, I'm not sure there's a better buy out there.

Kenko's Puro Circular Polarizing Filter is inexpensive, yet is meticulously engineered such that you get the best results.

This filter is made with Japanese assai precision optical glass for excellent clarity. It has oil-resistant and stain-resistant coatings as well, which are a huge benefit for keeping the filter as clean as possible.

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These filters are compatible with a wide range of lenses from Canon to Nikon, Sony to Fuji, Zeiss to Sigma, and many others.

They're also available in a variety of size, so no matter the size of the lens, you can find a Kenko filter.

 

Editor's Tip: Get Kenko’s latest updates and access to promos for discounted gear. Click here to sign up.

 

And since a polarizer reduces glare, maximizes the contrast in the sky, and minimizes atmospheric haze, it's an incredibly versatile filter.

Along with a new, more capable lens, a good circular polarizer is a perfect addition to your camera bag!



We Recommend


Common Landscape Photography Problems (and Their Solutions)

common landscape photography problemsImage Credit: Schroptschop via iStock

If you're discouraged by the quality of the landscape photos that you take, don't be!

One of the greatest things about photography is that there are plenty of tips, tricks, and techniques that you can use to improve the results you get.

You can also strive to minimize common landscape photography problems, which will help you create photos that are eye-catching.

Here's a few landscape photography tips that will help you learn how to take better landscape photos.

Common Landscape Photography Problem #1: Boring Composition

beach from above picture id635805498Image Credit: MarioGuti via iStock

If you just don't get all that excited looking at your landscape photos, it's time to find ways to amp up the visual interest.

One of the easiest ways to do that is to alter the perspective from which you shoot.

Consider this - a photo taken of a landscape from your eye level isn't anything new. Everyone sees landscapes from their eye level, but seldom do we get up above or get down low to see how landscapes change based on the difference in perspective.

That means that if you find ways to photograph landscapes by getting up high on a hill (or using a drone) or laying down on the ground, you'll instantly provide your compositions with an infusion of visual appeal.

Learn More:

Common Landscape Photography Problem #2: Uneven Exposure

partners through the journey of life picture id519622546Image Credit: pixdeluxe via iStock 

When photographing a landscape, it's easy to have an uneven exposure because the sky is so much brighter than the sky.

That means that you'll often end up with a photo that either has a sky that looks great but a landscape that's too dark, or a landscape that looks great but a sky that's too bright.

To fix this issue, all you need is a graduated neutral density filter.

As you can see above, these filters are darker on the top than they are on the bottom.

This serves the purpose of limiting the light that enters the camera from the sky, that way you end up with a photo that's better-exposed throughout.

There are different types of graduated ND filters for different situations.

For example, when there's a definite horizon (as shown below), a hard edge graduated ND filter is the ideal choice because the transition from the dark area of the filter to the light area of the filter is abrupt.

On the other hand, if you're photographing a scene in which features like trees or mountains or buildings are peaking above the horizon, a soft edge graduated ND filter is a better choice.

Since the transition between the filtered and non-filtered area is much broader, it allows you to create an image that has a much more gradual transition from dark to light to account for those elements that extend into the bright sky.

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When shopping for graduated ND filters, don't just buy the first cheap thing you find because cheap filters won't do you any favors.

I've used Formatt-Hitech hard edge ND filters and soft edge ND filters for a long time now, and I can tell you by experience that they are not just durable and easy to use, but because they're finely crafted, they produce excellent results, too.

Learn More:

Common Landscape Photography Problem #3: Empty Skies

landscape photography mistakeImage Credit: guenterguni via iStock

I appreciate a clear, blue sky as much as the next guy, but when you're after dynamic and interesting landscape photos, a clear, blue sky doesn't really fit the bill.

Of course, you can't exactly control the presence or absence of clouds when you're out shooting...

An easy solution is to adjust the horizon line of your shot.

When the skies are boring find a scene that has lots of foreground interest and shift the horizon upward, as shown above.

Not only does this trick help eliminate the boring sky problem, but it also helps you introduce interesting elements into the foreground, which invites viewers to take a deeper look at the photo.

Learn More:

Common Landscape Photography Problem #4: Flat Photos

landscape photography tipsImage Credit: franckreporter via iStock 

One of the challenges of photography is trying to make a two-dimensional image feel like it's three-dimensional.

Of course, many photographers fail in this regard, so their photos are flat and lack dimension.

A surefire way to combat this landscape photography mistake is to include elements that extend from the foreground to the midground and background of the shot.

This can be done with any kind of leading line - a pathway, a highway, or a jetty on a lake, for example.

Our eyes naturally like lines, so using them as a tool to create the illusion of depth and connectedness between the different areas of your photos will do your images a ton of good.

Give these landscape photography tips a try and see how much better your photos are as a result!

Learn More:



We Recommend


Create Photography Magic With These GoPro Photography Tips

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I'm not sure there's a camera that's more associated with adventure and photography than the GoPro.

After all, it's small, powerful, and can shoot video. You can mount it to your chest, to a tripod, to your helmet, or even to your car to get interesting stills and video, too.

But to unleash the true power of your GoPro, you need to give it a little help, just like you'd do with any other camera.

With that in mind, I've put together a quick list of things you can do to make photography magic with your GoPro.

Get Some Filters

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The value of having filters for your camera - GoPro or otherwise - cannot be understated.

Though there are plenty of factors that separate images by amateurs and images by the pros, the use of filters is probably the simplest and easiest of them all.

If you pick up a GoPro Elite Kit by Formatt-Hitech, you get a variety of filters that will help you take your photos to the next level...

With a neutral density filter, you can help your GoPro take gorgeous long exposures.

With a polarizer, you can eliminate glare off of water, reduce atmospheric haze, and boost the saturation and contrast of the sky.

Even a simple UV filter is helpful for your adventures with your GoPro as it will help protect the GoPro's lens from damage.

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Of course, having a GoPro means you can take your photography to places you typically wouldn't like under the surface of the ocean.

In that case, you want to have filters that help correct the colors in your images when diving in blue or green water.

The Formatt-Hitech GoPro Dive Kit has all you need for taking breathtaking underwater shots.

As seen above, the kit comes with a variety of tinted filters for correcting color casts when diving. Also included is a filter holder.

In other words, no matter if you're diving off the coast of California, riding your bike in the mountains of New Hampshire, or something in between, with the right filter kit, you can turn your GoPro into an even more effective photo and video-taking machine.

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Think About Composition

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I know it's hard to consider how your images and videos will look when your camera is strapped to your chest or mounted on top of your helmet.

But if you mount your GoPro to a tripod, you can use it like any other camera to capture well-composed images of everything from your kid playing soccer to the sunset over the field behind your house.

Just bear the traditional rules of composition in mind when creating your shots:

  • Use the rule of thirds to create a balanced composition that shifts your primary subject to the left or right of center.
  • Pay attention to the horizon line, ensuring that it's absolutely level.
  • Use leading lines to draw viewers into the shot and create an image with improved depth and dimension.
  • Look for good lighting that adds drama to the shot. Sidelighting is great for adding depth to landscapes; backlighting is nice for Golden Hour portraits.
  • Pay attention to the background of the shot. GoPro's have a wide angle of view, so you'll need to work a little harder to eliminate clutter.
  • Frame the shot such that the primary subject is strong in the frame. You want the subject to grab the viewer's attention.

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Additionally, work to find interesting perspectives and points of view to take your shots.

That might mean setting your GoPro on the ground for a worm's eye view or hooking it up to your drone for a bird's eye view.

The point is that the more effort you put into the manner in which your GoPro photos are composed, the better they will turn out.

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Stabilize Your GoPro

Just like any camera, your GoPro will take better photos if it's stabilized.

The great thing about GoPros is that they can be mounted just about anywhere, as I noted earlier.

Granted, you'll get sharper images if your GoPro is mounted to a tripod than if it's on your bike handlebars, but the point is still the same - the more secure and stable the GoPro is, the better the results will be.

You don't need anything big, expensive, or fancy, either.

Since GoPros are so lightweight, a small tabletop tripod like the Sirui 3T-35K shown above will do the trick.

If you want to create smooth videos, get a fluid pan head for the tripod as well.

For the adventurous types, you can get improved image and video quality if you add a gimbal to your GoPro.

Essentially, a gimbal acts as a counterbalance to any movement that causes the camera to shake, whether that's bouncing around on a sailboat or simply having shaky hands.

Learn More:

Wrapping It Up

As I've outlined above, getting better images and videos with your GoPro is really a lot like getting better images and videos with your regular camera.

Get outfitted with the appropriate filters, focus on composition, and find a way to stabilize your GoPro, and you'll find that the results you get are vastly improved.

Now all that's left to do is figure out where you'll take your GoPro to take epic shots!

Get even more tips for better GoPro photos in the video above from Kingston Technology.



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Crucial Tips for Improved Sunrise and Sunset Photos

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I love a good sunset. Especially one at the beach.

Who doesn't?!

It's hard to beat that incredible Golden Hour lighting, the feeling of the sand between your toes, and the smell of the salt air.

Well, I say it's hard to beat that, but getting a fantastic shot of a sunset is one way to make the moment even better!

But sunrise and sunset are tough times to get a really magical image.

The difficulties with exposure alone are enough to derail many of us.

But throw in a few compositional considerations, weather that won't cooperate, and not having the right gear, and sunrise and sunset can be downright impossible to photograph well.

In that spirit, I've put together a few tips and tricks that will make a noticeable difference in your ability to capture spectacular Golden Hour photos.

Don't Use Auto White Balance

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One of the best ways to ruin the impact of your sunrise and sunset photos is to leave your camera on auto white balance.

Now, I'm not saying that auto white balance isn't a valuable tool in many scenarios. In fact, I rarely feel compelled to take my camera out of auto white balance.

That is unless I'm photographing a sunrise or sunset...

The problem with auto white balance is that one of its primary purposes is to make the colors of the scene look neutral. That's why it's such a valuable tool because you can fine tune the colors in post-processing without having to worry as much about color casts.

But when you photograph a sunrise or sunset - a time of day in which the sky is absolutely bursting with color, you don't want auto white balance to dull those colors. Instead, you want to enhance them.

The question is, what white balance setting is best for enhancing the colors of Golden Hour?

Like many things in photography, the answer is, "it depends."

However, in most cases, if you've got a scene with a lot of warm tones - yellows, pinks, and oranges - the shade or cloudy white balance setting is ideal. It will enhance these colors (and help draw them out of an otherwise lackluster sunset too) because this setting is intended for warming up cool lighting situations.

Fortunately, it has the same warming effect when warm tones are present as well.

For a quick refresher on white balance, give the video above by Joshua Cripps from Professional Photography Tips a quick review.

Too Many Clouds Can Be a Bad Thing

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There is a fine balance when it comes to sunrise and sunset and the presence of clouds.

On the one hand, a cloudless sunrise or sunset can be a bit on the boring side without the benefit of having some textural details in the sky.

What's more, some of the impacts of the incredible colors of this time of day are lost without clouds to reflect that light.

On the other hand, too much cloud cover isn't ideal either. After all, if the sun is obscured by clouds, you won't have an opportunity to even get a shot of the sunrise or sunset.

We obviously don't have control over what the clouds are going to do on any given morning or evening when we're out shooting.

Having said that, a moderate level of clouds - just enough to add light and texture without overwhelming the shot - is what you should look for, like in the image above.

With a few clouds in the sky, your image will benefit from a broader range of colors and tones that add even more layers to your photo.

When paired with things like interesting landscape elements, a silhouetted figure of a person, or a city's skyline, you have all the makings for an eye-catching sunrise or sunset photo. After all, lighting is what makes or breaks any photo!

Gear Up With a Reverse ND Grad

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You've no doubt heard of neutral density filters, and I'm guessing the chances are pretty good that you might even have one in your kit.

ND filters are great for minimizing the amount of light that reaches the camera's sensor so you can create long exposure images, even in the daytime.

You might have also heard of graduated ND filters, which help landscape photographers overcome the difficulties of exposing for a bright sky and a dark foreground.

Unlike a traditional ND filter, a graduated ND filter has a varying level of stopping power - it's dark on top and clear on the bottom such that the light from the sky is filtered somewhat, resulting in an improved exposure.

There's also a handy little gadget called a reverse ND graduated filter that's designed specifically for sunrise and sunset photos. Watch the video below by Formatt-Hitech for a summary of the differences between a reverse ND grad and other filters:

A reverse ND grad is dark on top, even darker in the middle, and then has little or no filtering power on the bottom.

This is advantageous for photographing sunrises and sunsets because the sky will be bright and the foreground will be dark, but the brightest area of the scene will be on the horizon - where the sun is either rising or setting.

That means that a reverse ND grad is an ideal tool for overcoming the complexities of shooting at sunrise and sunset.

The dark upper half will stop some of the brightness of the sky while the darker middle portion will handle the extreme luminance from the sun. Meanwhile, you won't have to worry about foreground elements that are too dark because a reverse ND grad will allow in all the light possible to brighten things up.

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The reverse ND grad pictured above is a solid choice for sunrise and sunset photography.

This particular filter is by Formatt-Hitech.

The quality of the reverse ND grad you use is obviously extremely important, and Formatt-Hitech takes that to heart by using the highest-quality 1.55mm optical resin.

What's more, the reverse ND grads from Formatt-Hitech come in various strengths, including 1-stop, 2-stop, and 3-stop variations, so you have a wide selection that will help you address even the most challenging early morning or late evening lighting conditions.

These filters are also available in a host of sizes, from 67x85mm up to 165x200mm.

Best of all, Formatt-Hitech doesn't just make a good quality product, but they also price them aggressively.

That means you can get a nice reverse ND grad for your sunrise and sunset shots without having to spend a pile of money.

When you can combine quality with a great price, that's a good day in my book! Better still, combine a reverse ND grad with the other tips discussed above, and you have a recipe for capturing much-improved sunrise and sunset photos.



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Cutting-Edge Photography Accessories You Need in Your Bag Today

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Us photographers sure have it good these days, with all sorts of cutting-edge photography gadgets, gizmos, and accessories that make our jobs easier.

The problem - if you can call it one - is that there are just so many awesome photography accessories out there that it can be difficult to sift through all of them and decide which ones are the best bet.

With that in mind, I've put together a list of three of my favorite gadgets and gizmos that I think have the most potential to have a positive impact on the quality of the photos you take.

Sirui W-2204 Carbon Fiber Tripod

I have this tripod, and I have to say, it's one of the most impressive that I've had over the years.

For me, having a waterproof tripod is a must because I like to shoot photos at the beach.

The Sirui W-2204 tripod was the perfect solution, as it's not only waterproof but sand proof as well.

But even if you aren't big on beach photos, if you enjoy landscapes of any kind, having a bulletproof tripod is a great idea.

Since this bad boy is built for withstanding the elements, you don't have to worry if it's going to get all rusty and fall apart.

Something else I appreciate about this tripod is that it can hold nearly 40 pounds, but does so without being overly heavy.

Its carbon fiber construction means it's incredibly strong, yet lightweight at the same time. In fact, it weighs only 3.7 pounds

And with four leg sections, a maximum height of 71-inches, and three different leg angles to accommodate varied terrain, this tripod can handle anything I throw at it.

It's even easy to transport - its legs fold up 180-degrees for a compact 20.5-inch-long folded tripod that I can easily fit in my camera bag.

The innovations don't stop there, though.

Not only does one of the tripod's legs convert into a separate monopod, but the tripod also has a center column that can be inverted for getting low-angle shots.

Better still, the short center column is perfect for setting up macro shots when the mood strikes.

Add in a built-in bubble level, leg locking mechanisms that are quick and easy to use, and a center column hook for adding weight for stability, and you have a recipe for a tripod that's got tons of features that will help you get awesome shots.

Learn More:

Formatt-Hitech Master Filter Kit, Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition

Call me old-fashioned, but I think every photographer needs a solid set of filters.

I know that there's a lot that can be done to improve a photo in post-processing (see more on that in the next section), but for me, using filters to help get my photos as close to ideal as I can is definitely the way to go.

The key, of course, is to outfit yourself with filters that are well-constructed and will complement your lens glass, not hinder its ability to get a sharp, detailed photo.

That's where the Formatt-Hitech Master Filter Kit, Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition comes in...

This incredible set of filters has you covered no matter if you shoot landscapes or long exposures, cityscapes or architecture, or just need a good variety of filters for travel photography.

The kit comes with the following filters:

  • Firecrest ND 3.0 (10 stops)
  • Firecrest ND 1.8 (6 stops)
  • Firecrest ND 0.9 (3 stops)
  • Firecrest Soft Edge ND Grad 0.6 (2 stops)
  • Firecrest Soft Edge ND Grad 0.9 (3 stops)

And you also get a filter holder, adaptor rings or step rings, and a Firecrest Polarizer as well. There's even packages for 67mm, 85mm, and 100mm filters.

In other words, it's the complete package! And since Formatt-Hitech is at the forefront of innovation, they produce filters and filter accessories that are well-built, durable, and that help you create stunning photos. That's not a bad combination, right?

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Microsoft Surface Laptop

When post-processing duties call when you're traveling, you want something that's powerful, easy to use, and doesn't take up much space in your bag, either.

For me, that perfectly describes the Microsoft Surface Laptop.

Just consider these specs:

  • 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display
  • Intel Core i5 and i7 processors
  • Windows 10 S operating system
  • 14.5-hour battery life

So let's break that down...

Not only does the Surface Laptop have a gorgeously rich display with 3.4 million pixels, but it's also a touchscreen, which makes taking care of editing tasks (and just about anything else) a simpler, more precise task.

On top of that, with Intel Core processors, you know that you get top-notch performance with minimal lag time when you tackle power-hungry tasks like editing photos.

And with a battery that can last more than half a day, it's not like you have to be tethered to a plugin, either.

But the innovations don't stop there.

The Surface laptop weighs less than three pounds, so you can easily put it in your carry on or day bag and bring it along for the ride without feeling like you're burdened with a ton of weight.

And if the mood strikes to do a little editing after dark, you'll enjoy the backlit keys. The keyboard is covered with Alcantara fabric, too, so it's easy on the fingers (and the eyes!).

I've talked before about how Microsoft has really stepped up its game in attracting creative professionals away from Apple.

Trust me, the Surface Laptop is as innovative as it is good-looking, and if you try it once, you'll never go back to the other side!

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With that, you have my list of three of the best, most innovative photography gadgets around.

I've used each of these accessories first-hand, and I've been blown away by their quality of design and construction.

I think you will be impressed too!



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Do You Really Need a UV Filter?

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It's a question that plagues new and experienced photographers alike...

Do I really need a UV filter?

The answer to that question has been "it depends" for a long while now.

Some photographers swear by UV filters; others think they're useless.

I'd like to argue in favor of the former, though. Here's why.

Reason #1: UV Filters Cut Down on UV Rays

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Photographers need UV filters because they help reduce the number of ultraviolet rays (UV) that enter the lens.

This is important because UV rays can cause reduced image quality. What's the point of having a nice camera and a fancy lens if you don't help them take the best photos they can take?

Now, some photographers argue that UV filters themselves degrade the quality of images, and to a much greater degree than UV rays themselves.

Years ago, those photographers would have had an argument. However, over the last 8-10 years, the quality of UV filters has dramatically increased (as has the quality of polarizers, ND filters, and so forth).

That makes the "UV filters degrade images" argument null and void.

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Reason #2: UV Filters Protect Your Lens Glass

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Tell me if this sounds familiar...

You're fumbling around in the darkness, getting your gear setup for an early morning shoot, and your camera and lens find their way out of your bag and onto the ground with a thud.

Naturally, there would be an immediate concern for the delicate pieces and parts of your camera and lens, like the glass on the front of your lens.

But guess what? If you have a UV filter attached, the chances are that the filter would take the brunt of the fall and that your lens glass would have a better shot at being okay.

Some photographers argue that if you drop your lens hard enough that a UV filter isn't going to do anything to protect the lens glass.

And while I fully admit that if I throw my lens against a concrete floor as hard as I can that a UV filter won't help, I can also testify to the fact that a less forceful, accidental drop has resulted in a couple of broken UV filters for me over the years...and no damage to my lens glass.

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Reason #3: UV Filters Keep the Lens Glass Clean

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The fact of the matter is that dust, dirt, fingerprints, and other stuff will find it's way onto glass, whether it's your lens or a UV filter.

The argument against using a UV filter is often that if it's going to get dirty, what's the point of having one?

My position is that it's a heck of a lot easier to remove a UV filter and clean it than it is to clean the front element of my lens.

What's more, I'd much rather do a quick cleaning job on a $30 UV filter than my $600 lens, anyway. If I scratch the filter, no big deal. If I scratch my lens - yikes.

I'm not advocating that you shouldn't take care when cleaning a UV filter, but hey, replacing a filter is a heck of a lot less expensive than replacing or repairing a damaged lens!

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Reason #4: UV Filters Minimize Color Casting in Sunny Conditions

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Some lenses suffer from a certain type of chromatic aberration that causes purple fringing.

In particular, chromatic aberration that occurs on a longitudinal plane can cause this purple fringing to appear throughout the image.

A UV filter can help reduce that fringing on many lenses, resulting in a clearer, cleaner image.

What's more, some UV filters actually increase the contrast of the image that gives it more visual appeal.

So, while chromatic aberration on a longitudinal plane is fairly uncommon, why risk having purple fringing in your images when you have an easy and inexpensive way to minimize it?

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Reason #5: Today's UV Filters are Well Built and Packed With Features

Firecrest UV IR Cut 

The saying goes that your lens is only as good as the filter in front of it...

So if you invest in a poor quality UV filter, then you aren't going to enjoy the benefits I've outlined above.

But if you invest in a UV filter that's been made with precision and quality in mind, you'll find that it might become one of your most used pieces of kit.

Take, for example, the Formatt-Hitech Firecrest UV IR filter shown above.

Not only does it block UV rays, but it filters out infrared rays as well. That means even less harmful light is entering your lens and reducing the quality of your images.

What's more, the Firecrest UV IR filter increases contrast and improves image acuity, again, resulting in improved image quality.

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Unlike many cheap UV filters, the Firecrest has Formatt-Hitech's specialized multicoating that gives the filter both anti-reflective and hydrophobic properties.

That means that when you're out shooting in bright daylight conditions, you can worry less about glare and focus more on your composition.

Likewise, if the weather turns south, you don't have to be concerned about water droplets on the filter because it will shed them away so you can keep taking photos.

Heck, if you invest in a high-quality filter like the Firecrest UV IR, you'll enjoy less vignetting, too...

That's because it has one of the thinnest rings on the market today, so your camera will capture the scene in front of the lens, not the filter ring.

That's not a bad deal if you ask me!

Learn More:

Wrapping It Up

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I know there are plenty of arguments against using a UV filter, but for me, none of them are good enough to sway my opinion that a UV filter is a critical part of any photographer's kit.

If I can add something to my kit that's inexpensive, improves the quality of my images, and protects my lens, believe me, I'm going to do it!

If you're not convinced, check out the links in the Learn More sections throughout this article to read up on UV filters and what they can do for you!



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Don't Make These Landscape Photography Mistakes in 2018

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The great thing about this time of year is that you have a whole new year to look forward to.

It's also a great time to reflect on how things went this year, and identify a few things to work on to make next year even better.

That's true of a lot of things, including photography.

With that in mind, here's a few landscape photography mistakes you'll want to avoid in the coming year.

Mistake #1: Shooting Without Filters

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One of the most important photography accessories that a landscape photographer can own is a set of high-quality filters.

Yet for some reason, a lot of photographers shoot without filters...

I think part of the reason for that is that they think that they can add similar effects in post-processing, which is true.

However, the quality of those effects just isn't the same as can be achieved in-camera with some awesome filters.

When it comes down to it, there are just a few essential filters you need, each of which can completely change how your photos look:

  • A polarizing filter, which eliminates glare off of water and other non-metallic surfaces, in addition to reducing atmospheric haze and increasing contrast in the sky.
  • A graduated ND filter, which evens out the dynamic range between a bright sky and a dark foreground.
  • A ND filter, which allows you to use a much slower shutter speed during the daytime to get gorgeously blurred movement, as seen above.

There are other filters you can buy - reverse ND grads for sunrise and sunset shooting, UV filters to protect your lens from dirt, grime, and scratches, and even specialized filters like infrared.

However, the three listed above should be the first ones you buy, as they offer the most in terms of what they can do to improve your shots.

Firecrest ND Grad Filters

But buyer beware...not all filters are made alike.

You want to invest in filters that are high-quality and made to last, like those from Formatt-Hitech.

Their Firecrest line of filters is second-to-none, with excellent performance that offers incredible clarity, sharpness, and color fidelity.

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And now Formatt-Hitech offers a line of Firecrest Ultra filters which take performance to the next level, with a lap and polish process that was previously only used on cinema grade filters.

In other words, now more than ever, lens filters are a must-have, and Formatt-Hitech has all the filters you could possibly need!

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Mistake #2: Only Shooting in Horizontal Format

Just because you're photographing a landscape doesn't mean that you have to photograph it in landscape, or horizontal, format.

In many cases, landscape format works great as it helps you capture the width of the scene.

However, sometimes, landscapes are best viewed in portrait orientation, particularly if the subject is tall, like a waterfall or mountain peak.

Portrait format is also ideal for situations in which there's a lot of foreground interest, background interest, or both.

In the new year, endeavor to take more portrait format landscape shots, and you'll find that it will help you develop your creative eye for creating more dramatic landscapes.

Mistake #3: Shooting With the Crowd

It always amazes me when I'm at a popular landscape spot like Yosemite how many people stand in the same spot and photograph the same thing.

For starters, jockeying for the best position amongst a group of photographers is never fun.

Beyond that, the chances are good that if there's a huge group of folks in one spot, that that spot is iconic, and that your photos probably won't seem as awesome when compared to whatever famous photographer made that spot iconic in the first place.

So, if you want to create a landscape photo that's more unique and offers a different perspective on the scene before you, seek out a new spot from which to photograph it, and avoid those big groups of photographers.

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Mistake #4: Not Having a Strong Subject

One of the biggest problems of photographing a landscape, particularly for beginners, is the desire to include as much of the scene in the shot as possible.

The issue with doing so is twofold - on the one hand, you can overwhelm the viewer with details, which makes the shot feel muddled, and on the other hand, including everything in sight into the shot will likely diminish the visual impact of the subject.

For those reasons, it's important to strive to include a strong subject in every landscape photo you take.

Subjects can be strong and impactful for a variety of reasons - their size, their shape, their position in the shot, their color, and even their lightness or darkness.

Furthermore, the strength of the subject can be accentuated by using visual tricks like leading lines.

Leading lines help direct the viewer's eye so that you can take them on a journey through the shot.

For landscapes, rivers, fences, roads, pathways, and even the crest of a sand dune are just a few options for leading lines.

Mistake #5: Using Your Camera's Landscape Mode

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Just because most cameras have a landscape setting doesn't mean that you should use it.

For starters, landscape mode is fully automatic, so you have no say over the exposure settings, white balance, and so forth.

Secondly, the aperture it selects may or may not be ideal for depth of field purposes, so you might find that part of the shot isn't even in focus.

Apart from that, relying on automatic modes won't do you in favors in the long run because at some point you need to learn how to use your camera's manual controls.

Since the new year is fast-approaching, what better time than the present to learn how to shoot in manual mode, or at the very least, one of your camera's semi-automatic modes?

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Essential Accessories You Need for Your New Camera

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I'll be the first to say that today's cameras have a ton of bells and whistles that make them more powerful, more convenient, and easier to learn to use than ever before.

But despite all that, cameras still aren't stand-alone devices. There are plenty of things that they can't do on their own, which is why you need to think about the essential accessories you need for your new camera.

Some of these accessories help you take better photos. Other simply make it easier to carry your gear.

But the common thread between them is that they are essential to your growth as a photographer.

Vanguard Adapter 41 Camera Backpack

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For starters, you'll need something to carry your camera, lenses, and other gear in a way that protects your gear and allows you to carry it comfortably as well.

The Vanguard Adapter 41 Camera Backpack certainly fits the bill...

The great thing about this bag is that it's incredibly versatile to meet changing needs.

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For example, it has quick-access zippered gear openings on both sides of the bag so you can reach your gear easily.

It also has a customizable interior space so you can adjust it to carry different sizes of cameras, lenses, and so forth.

The Adapter 41 can be converted to a sling bag as well - just reposition one of its shoulder straps and stow the other one in the handy back sleeve. 

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It's also airline carry-on compatible, so if you've got a photography adventure in the works, this bag can get your gear there safe and sound. 

This bag will accommodate one DSLR body, one lens, small camera accessories like batteries, memory cards, and shutter remotes, and also has a tripod holder.

In other words, you can carry all your essential camera gear in this one bag and do it knowing that all the thick padding inside is protecting your new gear.

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Formatt-Hitech Circular Polarizing Filter

Firecrest Circular Polarizer

There are actually several filters you could pick up that would help you take better photos and expand your range into things like long exposure photography and getting improved pictures at sunrise and sunset.

But if you're into photographing landscapes, the first filter you need to buy is a polarizer.

That's because it's an incredibly versatile accessory that will help improve your photos in several ways.

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First, a circular polarizer, like the Firecrest Circular Polarizer by Formatt-Hitech shown at the start of this section, helps cut down atmospheric haze. That means that the photos you take of landscapes will look cleaner and crisper with more defined features, as seen above.

Second, polarizing filters help increase the contrast between the sky and the clouds, making the atmosphere a deeper blue and the clouds a brighter white. That gives your landscape photos much more visual appeal with tons of pop in the sky.

Third, polarizers eliminate glare off of non-metallic surfaces like water and foliage. So instead of getting a so-so shot of a mountain and a glare-filled lake, you just get landscape photography goodness of a beautiful mountain reflected in the waters of an alpine lake.

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Not all polarizing filters are made alike, though.

You want to get something that has an anti-reflective coating so the images you take have the best contrast and color fidelity possible.

You also want a filter that has a precision-milled housing that allows you to rotate the polarizer quickly and easily to maximize its effect.

The Firecrest Circular Polarizer ticks both of those boxes!

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Vanguard ESPOD CX 234AP Tripod

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I remember long ago when I got my first camera. I also remember thinking that I didn't need a tripod. I viewed it as an extra expense for something that was unnecessary.

Boy, I was wrong!

A tripod isn't just something you have in case you want to take a self-portrait.

Instead, a sturdy tripod helps you take better photos because it gives your camera a stable base. And the more stable your camera, the sharper your photos will be. That's a good thing.

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Beyond that, a solid tripod like the Vanguard ESPOD CX 234AP gives you the flexibility to tackle different types of photography.

You can use it to frame up portraits of your family or get tack-sharp images of a landscape. You can use it for long exposure photography, time-lapse videos, and even real-time videos, too.

And the best part? This tripod is lightweight, built like a tank, and easy to use.

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The aluminum chassis is strong, giving you the ability to mount up to 7.7 pounds of gear on it.

It extends to a height of 61-inches but folds down to just 20.6-inches for easy carrying.

It's got four leg sections for customizing its height, each of which is secured with easy-to-use flip locks as seen above.

The rubber feet on ESPOD CX 234AP keep it steady on slippery surfaces, and an asymmetrical locking knob keeps the center column right where you want it.

If you want a tripod that will help improve your photos but won't break the bank, this is it!

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Alpine Labs Pulse Camera Remote

Some photographers might not think a camera remote is necessary for a beginner, but I beg to differ.

Yes, your camera has a built-in timer that's handy for getting self-portraits and for avoiding camera shake.

However, your camera's built-in timer can't do the things that the Alpine Labs Pulse can do.

Pulse Sunset Thumb

For starters, this little gadget allows you to control your camera via a smartphone app. That means that no matter what you're photographing, you don't actually have to stand behind your camera to take the photo.

In fact, you can get photo thumbnails and histograms right on your phone so you can examine the images you take. And if things need to be tweaked, no problem. You can adjust everything from aperture to shutter speed to ISO, set a timer delay, and even bracket exposures.

Sure, those are more advanced photography techniques that you may not yet be familiar with, but having a camera accessory that can handle those tasks will sure help you learn faster!

Pulse isn't just for taking still photos, either.

You can use it to create long exposure images, time-lapse videos, and real-time videos as well.

And since Pulse connects to your phone via Bluetooth, you can be up to 100 feet away and still control all the action.

In fact, once you send your commands to Pulse, it doesn't need to be connected to your phone any longer so you can wander around and let Pulse do its thing!

Learn More:



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Every Landscape Photographer Needs These Filters

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In the digital age, we've come to rely on the likes of Photoshop and Lightroom to make adjustments to our images.

And that's totally okay! I'm not a Photoshop hater in the least...

However, there are some things that Photoshop simply cannot replicate, at least not well.

The first is the effect that a polarizer has on an image.

The second is the effect that a neutral density filter has on an image.

And because of that, polarizers and ND filters are must-haves for landscape photographers.

Editor's Note: If you're in need of a polarizer, ND filter, or other lens filters, we recommend Formatt-Hitech. Their line of filters - particularly their Firecrest filters - are second to none and offer excellent performance at affordable prices. You can check out their filters by visiting their website.

What Does a Polarizer Do?

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The great thing about polarizers is that they do a lot of different things.

For starters, they increase the contrast of the sky, making the blues deeper and the whites of the clouds brighter. In other words, they make skies pop.

Additionally, polarizers reduce glare off of non-metallic surfaces like wet foliage and rocks, as well as the surface of bodies of water.

That increases your ability to get a clean, crisp image because the polarizer will eliminate distracting glare.

What's more, polarizing filters reduce atmospheric haze. It's just another way that they improve your landscapes for a cleaner look.

And since polarizers come in a circular form that rotates, you can adjust the filtering power of the filter to get different looks.

Granted, you can overdo it with a polarizer, which leaves darkened blobs in the image. You can also underdo it by not using the filter in the best way.

For example, to have the best effect, you should shoot at a 90-degree angle to the sun when you're using a polarizer.

However, despite these potential difficulties, one thing remains the same - the effect you get from a good polarizer simply looks much better than what you can accomplish in Photoshop.

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What Does an ND Filter Do?

ND filters are specifically designed to reduce how much light enters your camera's lens.

These darkened filters come in varying strengths, measured in stops. For example, a 1-stop filter has little light-blocking power, where a 16-stop filter has tremendous light-blocking power.

The question is, why would you want to block light entering your lens?

For landscape photographers, if you want to create motion blur in an image, say, blur the movement of water, you need to use a slow shutter speed.

The problem is that if you reduce the shutter speed to get that motion blur, the image will be wildly overexposed.

That's where an ND filter comes in...

By blocking out some of the light, an ND filter enables you to use the slow shutter speed you need for motion blur while protecting against overexposure.

High-quality ND filters are truly neutral and have no effect on the colors in the image.

Cheap ND filters can't claim the same, so buyer beware when you shop for an ND filter.

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Isn't Photoshop Easier?

The answer to this question will depend on who you ask.

For me, Photoshop isn't an easier alternative to using a polarizer or an ND filter because you simply cannot get the same quality results in post-processing as you can in the field.

Yes, you can make a change in Photoshop relatively quickly, but you can add a filter to your lens pretty quickly as well.

That's particularly true when using a circular polarizing filter, given that you simply screw it onto your lens and rotate the filter as needed.

With ND filters, there's some calculations involved to get the right exposure settings with the filter attached.

However, even then, it's not like it's a long, drawn-out process to use an ND filter.

Get Quality Results With Quality Filters

I cannot emphasize this point enough...

If you want the best-looking photos, you need to outfit yourself with top-quality filters.

Filters are a lot like lenses in that regard - the better the lens, the better the quality of the image.

You don't want to put a cheap filter in front of your expensive lens, so getting high-quality filters is a must.

As I noted earlier, Formatt-Hitech knows how to build a great filter... 

Their Firecrest ND filters have a rare earth metal coating that helps keep their effect hyper neutral. What's more, they have multicoating bonded in the middle to prevent scratches to the glass.

Formatt-Hitech's Firecrest Circular Polarizer comes with an exclusive anti-reflective coating that ensures your photos have gorgeous colors and contrast. The polarizer rings are precision milled, too, giving you pinpoint control over how they impact your images.

In other words, if you want to create the best possible landscape photos, pull yourself away from Photoshop, get outfitted with some awesome filters, and see what you can do out in the field!



We Recommend


Fail-Proof Landscape Photography Tips

tips for taking landscape photos

Not sure how to take your landscape photos to the next level?

Well, all you need are a few fail-proof tips to help you find and execute the best shots!

In this article, I've got a few tips for landscape photography camera settings, gear, composition.

Let's get started!

How to Take Landscape Photos: Break Convention

how to take landscape photos

Right out of the gate, I want to recommend that you break with what's traditionally done.

For example, most landscapes that involve water are long exposures, that way the water is beautifully blurred for a dreamy look.

But there's also beauty in going the opposite direction and using a fast shutter speed to freeze the movement of water, as seen above.

To easily freeze movement, use Shutter Priority Mode and set your shutter speed to around 1/250 seconds to start. That should be plenty fast to freeze the water's movement unless it's a raging river.

Experiment with the shutter speed you use until you get the beautiful, frozen movement you seek.

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Add People to Your Landscape Photos

man in yellow raincoat on the preikestolen in fog in norway picture id700678042

The great thing about adding people to a landscape shot is that it makes the photo instantly more relatable.

That is, a photo of gorgeous mountains is great and all, but a photo of a person amidst those mountains makes it easier for the viewer to imagine themselves actually being there in that spot viewing the scene with their own eyes.

What's more, adding something of a familiar size gives viewers a better idea of the grandeur of the scene.

In other words, seeing a tiny person in a landscape photo helps us to understand just how big and magnificent the landscape actually is.

Helping people to understand the scene and envision themselves in it will only enable you to create more impactful photos!

Use Filters

firecrest nd grad

Using filters is kind of an old-school thing, it seems, but believe me when I say that if you're looking for a fail-proof way to improve your landscapes, using lens filters like the graduated NDshown above is definitely one of them.

Consider this...

Filters can do everything from reduce glare off of water and other non-metallic surfaces to reduce the dynamic range of a scene so you can get a well-exposed image throughout to help you manage the challenging lighting conditions as sunrise and sunset, and even help you create gorgeous long exposure images during the daytime.

So with one set of filters, you have multiple ways of creating breathtaking photos!

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That's especially true if you opt for high-end filters like those from Formatt-Hitech, like the Neutral Density 3.0 Filter shown above.

I've been shooting with Formatt-Hitech filters for a couple of years now, and I can tell you first-hand that these things are locked and loaded with features that make them a wise investment.

Not only does Formatt-Hitech coat their filters with their bespoke Firecrest multicoating to reduce aberrations and improve color contrast and fidelity, but their Firecrest Ultra line of filters goes a step further with bonding to protect the coating in the center of the filter.

That means that these filters have enhanced durability over time and can stand up well to the bumps and bruises that come with shooting landscapes.

Firecrest Ultra filters are also created with a lap and polish technique, which results in excellent neutrality, clarity, and sharpness.

What's not to like about that?!

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Use a Tripod for Sharper Landscapes

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There are many advantages for shooting landscape photos with a tripod-mounted camera, but chief among them is that you'll get sharper photos.

Even if you have the steady hands of a surgeon, you still can't match the stability that a tripod (or a monopod) gives your camera while the shutter is open.

But more than that, having your camera mounted to a tripod gives you the ability to concentrate on things like framing and composition.

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That is, it takes a few seconds to setup a tripod for the shot, and that few seconds gives you a chance to examine the scene a little more closely and hone in on what you want to do with the shot.

Contrast that with the rapid "spray and pray" method that photographers sometimes use when handholding the camera, and you can imagine that the one in which you take a little more time to perfect the shot ends up being the better one more often than not.

landscape photos 

The key to getting the most out of a tripod for landscape photography is to invest in something that's functional and durable.

Tripods can be expensive, that's for sure. But it's better to spend the money on something that actually has features that can help you - like quick-lock legs, a bubble level, and integrated center column hook - and that will stand the test of time, rather than buying a string of poorly built, cheap tripods.

For my money, Sirui tripods are the way to go if you're a landscape photographer.

I have their W-2004 tripod, and it's a total beast in every sense of the word!

landscape tips

Not only is it waterproof, but it has twist lock legs that make it easy (and fast) to get setup.

What's more, this rig has retractable spikes in its feet which gives it even more stability, especially on uneven or slippery terrain.

I also appreciate the fact that one of the legs converts to a monopod, that way on those occasions when I don't need my full setup, I still have something to support my camera to get super sharp photos.

It packs up small too, thanks to its legs that invert 180-degrees, so it's easy to pack and carry. What's not to like about that?

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Look for Contrast

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What sets gorgeous landscape photos apart from so-so landscape photos is often the quality of the light in the shot.

That means that you need to seek out opportunities for highlighting dramatic light so that your photos stand out from the crowd.

Shooting at golden hour certainly helps because the warm rays of the sun cast long shadows across the landscape as the sun dips toward the horizon.

With the contrast that ensues - areas of bright light and deep shadow - the scene becomes far more dramatic and interesting.

In these instances, try zeroing in on a smaller vignette in the larger landscape so that you can make that contrast the star of the shot.

Going in for a close-up landscape photo will challenge your compositional skills as well, given that most landscapes are shot as wide-angles.

As you can see above, though, doing so can get you breathtaking results!

Bring a Headlamp

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Dramatic landscapes often have a range of values from bright to dark, and sometimes you need a headlamp to help you get that increased dynamic range.

I love a good nighttime shot of the sky with an illuminated background like the one above, and when I go out in search of shots like that, my Petzl NAO+ is with me.

This headlamp is one of my favorite things in my camera bag because it does its job so well.

It puts out 750 lumens, so even in the darkest of rural areas at night, I feel like I can see for miles.

petzl nao headlamp 2

But guess what? If I'm out until dawn and don't need as much light from the headlamp, it'll automatically adjust itself to reduce the brightness. Not bad, right?!

I use the NAO+ for directing me as I hike, seeing the back of my camera to make critical adjustments, and for light painting, too.

It's not just a headlamp - it's a creative tool that allows me to take better photos!

Tips for Taking Landscape Photos: Alter Your Perspective

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A cardinal sin that many beginner photographers commit is to photograph the landscape from their eye level in most of their shots.

This isn't to say that your eye level isn't a great perspective from time to time, but by altering the perspective, you're more likely to create a photograph that is more unique and interesting to the viewer.

That being the case, kneel down and shoot from a lower-than-usual point of view or climb a hill to get a higher vantage point and shoot down toward the subject.

If you have a drone, use it to take unique top-down shots of the landscape from above (provided that you've followed drone safety rules, of course!).

The point is that as far as landscape tips go, they're all about maximizing what's good about the scene and minimizing errors or features that make your photos boring.

By using these fail-proof landscape photography tips, you'll find that better photos are much easier to get!

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Four Landscape Photography Tips That Will Have an Immediate Impact

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When you're scanning your Instagram feed, it only takes your brain a split second to determine if the photo you're looking at is any good.

Crazy, right?

No matter who took the photo, no matter how much experience or training they have, every "good" photo has a few things in common.

If you want your landscape photos counted among the good ones, this list is for you. It isn't an exhaustive list, but if you're looking for ways to immediately improve your landscape photography, this will get you started.

Don't Be Lazy 

I spend a good amount of time in national parks, and I'm always astonished at how many people emerge from their vehicles, walk to the scenic overlook, snap a few photos, and get back in their cars to continue on.

If you think about it, the photos taken from those scenic overlooks are going to be virtually the same as every other photo that's ever been taken at that spot.

For that reason, you need to be a little more adventurous and find new points of view to photograph landscapes.

That doesn't mean you need to strap on a backpack and hike for 20 miles to a spot no one has ever seen before, but what it does mean is that you should spend 10 or 20 minutes exploring the area to find new and unique perspectives.

Editor's Tip: If you really want to get off the beaten path, you need a high-quality camera bag or backpack to get your gear there safely. You also want something that's comfortable for you to carry, provides easy access to your gear, and can accommodate all the gear you need for your outdoor adventure. Find bags that fit the bill here.

Pay Attention to the Depth of Field

In most cases, landscape photography requires a very large depth of field (the area of the image that's sharp) to be most effective.

As you can see in the image above, everything from front to back is in sharp focus, giving us a prime view of this landscape. Even if the depth of field is off just a bit, it could render foreground or background elements blurry, which can ruin the feel of the shot.

To maximize the depth of field, use an aperture somewhere in the middle, say, f/8 or f/11. Then, set your focal point about one-third of the way from the bottom of the frame. You can see what I mean in the video above by Professional Photography Tips

Doing so - and shooting with your camera on a tripod - will help you get the sharpest photos with the appropriate depth of field.

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Check Your Histogram

If you immediately check your camera's LCD to see the photo you've just taken, you're doing it all wrong.

That's because the LCD doesn't really give you an accurate display of what the photo looks like, at least in terms of its exposure.

For that, you need to look at the camera's histogram, which is a graph that shows the distribution of tones in the image. On the left side, it shows shadows; on the right, it shows highlights.

Ideally, you want a bell-shaped curve in most situations, as that represents all tones from dark to bright, with most of the tonal values falling in the middle.

The great thing about a histogram is that it accurately tells you if your image is too dark or too bright, that way you can make adjustments to the exposure settings.

For example, if the histogram is skewed to the right, you know that the image is overexposed. If it's skewed to the left, it's underexposed.

That makes the histogram one of the most powerful tools you have at your disposal because by using its information, you can correct your settings, use exposure compensation, and even recompose the shot to get a better-exposed photo right then and there.

Editor's Tip: While the histogram is one of the most powerful tools your camera has for creating better photos, one of the most powerful camera accessories is a tripod. Tripods stabilize your camera, allowing you to get sharper, more detailed photos. Using a tripod also opens up possibilities for taking long exposures. Get outfitted with a high-quality landscape tripod here.

Shoot in RAW

If you aren't shooting in RAW, you need to rectify that situation right now.

Shooting in JPEG was in vogue years ago because they're smaller files sizes, and therefore took up less room on memory cards.

But these days, memory cards have tons of room and lighting-fast read/write speeds, so there's really no reason to continue limiting yourself with JPEGs.

Unlike JPEGs, RAW files are not compressed, which means they retain all the data collected by your camera's sensor.

Having all that data is a boon for you because you have that much more information to work with when you process the photo. That gives you more opportunities to be creative with the images you've taken and create something truly unique, all without losing image quality.

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It's Not Always About the Location

Sure, it's nice to photograph iconic landscapes like those you find in Iceland, Yellowstone, or the Horn of Africa.

But those locations aren't readily accessible to most people. That means you need to make do with the scenery you've got nearby.

If you use the techniques I've outlined above, you can do just that. After all, the success of a photo isn't just about the subject. It also has to do with not being lazy, maximizing the depth of field, using your camera's histogram to guide the exposure, and shooting in RAW.

If you can do those four things, you'll be much better prepared to take epic landscape photos!



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Get a Well-Exposed Landscape Photo Every Time With This One Simple Trick

gorgeous landscape photos

If I had to choose my biggest complaint about landscape photography, it would probably be the difficulty in getting a well-exposed image.

You've been there before - with a bright sky and a dark landscape, you find that you either have a well-exposed sky, a well-exposed landscape, but not both.

Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to rectify this most-frustrating situation.

In the video above, Joshua Cripps outlines landscape photography tips designed for getting a well-exposed landscape photo each and every time you shoot.

It's a simple formula for success, even if you're a brand-spanking new photographer.

Check out his tutorial, and for a step-by-step outline of the process, read on below!

Editor's Tip: These are the three must-have prime lenses you need in your camera bag.

Step 1: Compose the Shot, Set the Aperture, and Focus

well exposed landscape photo

The first step in the process is to setup your camera for the shot.

That means using a tripod to ensure your camera and lens have the solid support they need to get a sharp landscape photo.

That also means selecting an aperture that allows you to set the depth of field so you have everything in the shot in focus.

If you aren't completely sure how to set the aperture, consult this detailed guideline on aperture and depth of field.

And, if you aren't certain how to set the focus for a landscape photo, be sure to consult Joshua's video above.

Again, it's a quick guide that will give you all the details you need to take gorgeous landscape photos.

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Step 2: Meter to the Middle

landscape photography tips

The next step in getting a well-exposed landscape photo is to set your metering to the middle.

Begin by putting your camera in evaluative or matrix metering mode.

Not to get too technical, but these metering modes take light information from all over the scene, with the idea that in the end, the final exposure will take into account everything from the brightest to the darkest areas.

For a quick tutorial on metering modes, check out this guide.

how to use a light meterYouTube Screenshot/Joshua Cripps

As Joshua demonstrates in his video, your next task is to manually adjust the shutter speed until the light meter is in the middle.

In the screenshot above, you can see how to use a light meter. Notice how the meter shows no bars to the left or right of center. That's exactly what you want to get a well-exposed image.

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Step 3: Check Your Camera's Histogram

Your camera's histogram shows a graphical representation of the light values in the image.

As you can see in the graphic above, light values from shadows to highlights are represented.

When you look at your histogram, you want to see something close to what you see in the chart above - higher values in the middle and lower values toward the edges.

If there's a spike on the left side of the histogram, the image is too dark. If there's a spike on the right side, it's too bright.

If that's the case, adjust the shutter speed again - slow it down if the histogram is skewed to the left and speed it up if the histogram is skewed to the right.

If you need further details on how to use a histogram, consult this article.

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Another Way to Get a Well-Exposed Landscape Photo

firecrest ultra soft edge

In the introduction, I noted how one of the biggest frustrations of taking landscape photos is an uneven exposure due to a bright sky and dark foreground.

If you ask me, the simplest way to resolve this issue is to use a graduated neutral density filter to help you bring down the brightness of the sky.

As you can see above, this Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Ultra Soft-Edge Graduated Neutral Density Filter does just that because it is darker on the top and gradually lightens toward the bottom.

That means that you can get a well-exposed landscape photo by simply using a filter and fine-tuning the camera settings as discussed above.

firecrest ultra soft edge 1.5

The reason why I recommend Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Ultra filters is because they are among the best filters on the market today.

And just like with your camera lens, with filters, you get what you pay for.

Cheap filters are more likely to diminish the quality of your images because they have poor optics. Not the case with these Firecrest Ultra filters, though...

These professional filters are bonded to give them greater durability over time. Plus, they're made with a "lap and polish" technique which gives them unparalleled clarity and sharpness.

What's more, you can choose from filters that offer from 1-stop to 5-stops of darkness (the one shown above is a 5-stop filter).

In other words, not only can you get a well-exposed photo with these filters, but you'll also retain excellent sharpness, too.

What's not to like about that?!

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We Recommend


Get Started in Long Exposure Photography With These Quick Tips

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With as ubiquitous as cameras have become - especially smartphone cameras - it's easier today than ever before to take some pretty compelling images.

That includes normal still photos and long exposures, too.

The problem that beginners seem to face when trying to dabble in long exposure photography is figuring out all the gear that's needed to get the best shots.

This obviously includes a camera and lens, but beyond that, it also includes a top-notch tripod, an excellent set of neutral density filters, and a high-quality camera remote to help you capture the shots you want.

With all that in mind, here's a few gear tips for long exposure photography (with a few other quick tips thrown in for good measure).

You Need a Good Neutral Density Filter Kit

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Let's start with the most important accessory you need for long exposures - a neutral density (ND) filter.

An ND filter blocks out a portion of the sun's rays, allowing you to utilize longer shutter speeds than would otherwise be possible during the daytime.

As their name suggests, ND filters are neutral, meaning, they merely block out light and do not cause a color cast in the image. Some ND filters are better than others at doing this.

ND filters are measured in stops, with each stop reducing the available light by a factor of 2. So, where a one-stop filter (ND2) reduces light by a factor of 2, a two-stop filter (ND4) reduces it by a factor of 4, a three-stop filter (ND8) by a factor of 8, and so forth.

Most ND filters go up to 10-stops, though there are super dark options available that extend to 16 stops. Photographers can also stack filters as they see fit, making a five-stop filter out of a two-stop stacked on top of a three-stop.

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Quick Tip: With the math out of the way, the next problem to think about with an ND filter is how it changes the way you work.

Normally, you'd frame up the shot and press the shutter button to get the image, but since ND filters are so dark, they make your camera's autofocus system worthless.

That is, your camera requires light for its autofocus system to detect contrast, but an ND filter blocks out so much light that the camera can't figure out where to focus.

That means you need to compose the shot, switch your lens to manual focus to lock the focus, and then attach the filter to your lens.

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As I mentioned earlier, not all ND filters are made equally, so you need to get outfitted with a filter or set of filters with a reputation for quality.

Formatt-Hitech certainly fits the bill, as their series of photography filters is second-to-none.

Their Firecrest multi-coating is applied to each piece of glass via an electrolytic process. That gives you unprecedented control over the light entering your camera and guaranteed hyper-neutral results, too.

Their Long Exposure Filter Kit #1, Joel Tjintjelaar Signature Edition has a four ND filters (a 3-stop, 6-stop, 9-stop, and 10-stop) that give you plenty of flexibility regarding just how long of an exposure you can use.

Again, you can stack filters to get different strengths, so with these four filters, you really have dozens of possibilities in terms of filter combinations, including 13-stops and 16-stops for ultra long exposures of five minutes or more.

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Formatt-Hitech even offers two different versions of their long exposure kit, one with circular screw in filters and another with rectangular 100mm filters.

Both versions come with an exclusive booklet by Joel Tjintjelaar, one of the best long exposure photographers in the world. Also included is a long exposure conversion chart and pouches and clamshells for storing your filters.

In other words, this filter kit has everything you need to get started taking long exposures, and because it's built by Formatt-Hitech, it'll serve you well for years and years to come.

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Your Camera Needs Stability

Since we're talking about exposures that are seconds long at the very least (and perhaps even minutes long), you certainly can't stand there and hold your camera still enough to get a good shot.

That's where a tripod comes in...

Of course, not all tripods are built alike, so buying some cheap, flimsy tripod won't do you or your images any favors.

When looking for a solid tripod for your photography adventures, I strongly recommend Sirui, as they are a company that has continuously put out top-notch tripods with innovative features that make the job of getting the shot easier to do.

When you're taking a long exposure, you want a tripod that has a few extra bells and whistles that help stabilize it.

Take Sirui's W-2204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod as an ideal example...

Obviously, it's waterproof, so you don't have to worry about water, dirt, sand, dust, and grime getting into its legs.

And since it's carbon fiber, it's lightweight, too, coming in at just 3.7 pounds. Compared to its nearly 40-pound load capacity, that's not bad at all!

Quick Tip: Most tripods have an extendable center column to give them extra height. However, the further the center column is extended, the less stable it becomes. To maximize stability (and, therefore, the sharpness of the images you take), keep the center column retracted as far as possible.

Now, when it comes to stability, this thing has it all.

Each leg has its own leg angle lock mechanism to ensure quick, convenient, and stable setup.

It's also got three different leg angle positions so it can accommodate uneven terrain without compromising on stability.

There's a center column hook as well, ideal for hanging a bag or another heavy object to act as ballast.

That means that once you set this bad boy up, your camera isn't going anywhere. And the result of that? Sharper long exposure images!

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Being Hands-Free Means Sharper Results

There are tons of camera remotes out there, some that simply trigger the shutter when pressed and then close it when pressed again. 

But like a cheap tripod, a cheap camera remote doesn't really do you much good. 

Instead, if you're going to invest in the gear, invest in something that gives you all sorts of power to create breathtaking images.

Quick Tip: In addition to using a tripod to get sharp images, you can also use a camera remote.

By remotely triggering your camera's shutter, you avoid causing camera shake, which leads to blurry photos and results that are less than pleasing.

I'm of course talking about Pulse by Alpine Labs.

This tiny gadget weighs just 1.5 ounces, but it packs a mighty punch.

Not only is it the perfect companion for helping you take long exposures, but it'll also help you take better still photos, real-time videos, and time-lapse videos, too.

That's because it works via Bluetooth and a smartphone app so that you can command your camera from up to 100 feet away. Not bad, right?

Just mount Pulse to your camera's hot-shoe, plug it into your camera's USB port, fire up the companion app, and you can do all sorts of things.

That includes controlling aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, viewing thumbnails and the histogram right on your phone, and creating both timed and manual long exposures.

Heck, you can even lay down in your tent and make all the adjustments you want to your camera to get the perfect long exposure. In fact, once Pulse has your settings, it doesn't need to stay connected to your phone. That means it'll work on its own while you wander around looking for the next shot.

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Putting It All Together

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Creating epic long exposures requires more than just the right gear.

You need to pay attention to framing and composition, consider the lighting, and be sure to include elements that indicate movement, like water or stars moving across the night sky.

However, before you can even think about those details, you need to assemble the right kind of kit.

If you ask me, the combination of the filters, tripod, and camera remote I've outlined here is pretty darn close to the perfect long exposure photography kit.

So, get the gear you need, head out, and start practicing your long exposure techniques!

You're sure to get far superior results with this gear than without!



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Here’s Why a 35mm is the Best Lens for Travel Photography

best lens for travel photographyImage Credit: pixdeluxe via iStock

In thinking about the best lens for travel photography, there are certainly a lot of possibilities. Let's explore a few of the reasons why a 35mm prime lens is such a great choice for photographing your travels.

On the one hand, a lot of photographers love something like a Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8G IF-ED zoom lens because of the versatility of focal length that it offers.

On the other hand, plenty of photographers prefer a larger zoom - something like a Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM - for added options when it comes to taking wide-angle to telephoto images.

Another popular option is to go prime, like a 50mm f/1.4. But as Julia Trotti explains in the video above, there's a strong case to be made that the best lens for travel photography is a Canon 35mm f/1.4 L USM.

Editor's Tip: Have an old lens or camera you want to get rid of? See what your camera gear is worth.

A 35mm Prime Lens Captures Wide-Angle Shots - But Not Too Wide-Angle

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As Julia points out in her video, when you're traveling, one of the most common subjects for photos is the landscapes you encounter.

And when you photograph landscapes, a wide-angle lens is ideal.

What's nice about 35mm photography is that it's wide, but not too wide. That is, rather than distorting the landscape like an ultra-wide-angle lens would do, a 35mm lens pretty much captures the landscape as you see it with your own eyes.

That means that the images you take with a 35mm lens look right and are comfortable to view.

Granted, if you use a 35mm lens on a crop sensor camera, that view will be restricted to a more standard focal length. But, still, even on a crop sensor camera, a 35mm lens is a great choice for travel photography.

What is a 35mm Lens Good For? Portraits...

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Just because 35mm prime lenses are great for landscapes doesn't mean that they're a one-trick pony.

In fact, as Julia points out, a 35mm lens is a great portrait lens, too.

One of the primary reasons for this is because you can take environmental portraits of your subject that includes more of the scene with them in the photo.

That is, rather than getting up-close for a headshot or half-body shot, a 35mm lens enables you to get a full-body portrait while also capturing the scenery around the model.

When you're traveling, having the ability to capture people and places in the same shot is extremely valuable.

And, as noted earlier, you'll get that wide-angle view without the massive distortion that you get when shooting with a wider lens.

Editor's Tip: Not sure if you can afford a new camera? See how far you can stretch your dollar when buying a quality pre-owned camera.

35mm Prime Lenses are Typically Small and Light

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When compared to other prime lenses like a 50mm f/1.4 or a 85mm f/1.2, a 35mm f/1.4 is comparatively small and light.

That'll come in handy over and over again as you travel because the last thing you want to do it feel bogged down by a ton of heavy gear.

The smaller form factor is great for working your way through crowded streets while the lightweight construction will be much-appreciated as the hours and hours out exploring go on.

And, since it's such a versatile lens, you can head out from the hotel and take nothing but your 35mm f/1.4 with you. Talk about traveling light!

35mm Lenses + Filters = Perfection

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As great as 35mm lenses are for travel photography, if you pair them with high-quality lens filters, you get an even more robust result.

Think about it...

When you're photographing landscapes while traveling, how often do you encounter bright skies above darker landscapes?

Short of bracketing your exposures or blending multiple exposures, you're either left with a sky that's well-exposed and a landscape that's too dark, or a landscape that's well-exposed and a sky that's too bright.

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If you use a graduated neutral density filter, though, that problem is solved in-camera.

Since the top of a graduated ND filter is darkened, it blocks out some of the light from the bright sky, allowing your camera to capture the breadth of the dynamic range in the scene.

That means that you can get a single photo that's well-exposed throughout right then and there, with no need to process the image for exposure levels later on.

And when you use high-quality graduated ND filters like those from Formatt-Hitech, you get even better results.

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That's because Formatt-Hitech isn't messing around with how they construct these filters.

Take their Firecrest Ultra Soft Edge Grad as a perfect example.

This thing is available in densities from 1 to 5 stops so you're sure to get the precise amount of light-blocking power you need.

Additionally, these professional-grade filters are bonded to protect the coating of the filter, which gives it enhanced durability over the long-term. That means that when you invest in one of these filters, it'll last you a good, long while.

As if all that isn't good enough, Formatt-Hitech's Firecrest Ultra filters are made with a lap and polish technique, which gives the filter superb neutrality, clarity, and sharpness.

In other words, by using a graduated ND filter, you not only can capture better-exposed photos, but photos that are clear, sharp, and have tons of impact, too.

Final Thoughts: The Best Lens for Travel Photography

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As if these aren't good enough reasons to snag a 35mm f/1.4 lens for your next trip, Julia has even more reasons to pick one up. Be sure to see what she has to say in the video above.

I'll throw in an additional point as well: there's a lot of good 35mm lenses out there!

Though Julia uses a Canon 35mm f/1.4 L USM, there's a newer Mark II version of that lens.

If you're a Nikon shooter, you can choose from lenses like the 35mm f/1.4G shown below or the 

35mm prime lens

And for Sony, Fuji, Pentax, and shooters with other camera brands, there's plenty of options for you as well.

Better still, in addition to there being a wide selection of possibilities, you can find great deals on used lenses that allow you to get a better lens for less money.

As far as I'm concerned, there's no better deal than that!



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How to Add Drama to Your Landscape Photos

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Tell me if this sounds familiar...

You see epic photos of landscapes online and in magazines and wish that your photos had the same kind of impact.

The problem is, you don't know where to begin regarding how to add drama to your landscape photos.

Granted, creating an image that has tons of visual impact requires a lot of moving parts, but there's one thing in particular that can really help improve your images.

That thing is a polarizer.

What is a Polarizer?

Firecrest Circular Polarizer 

Quite simply, a polarizer like the one shown above by Formatt-Hitech minimizes how much reflected light reaches your camera's sensor.

In other words, it works to help your camera capture images that have more crispness and clarity because the polarizer reduces glaring light as well as atmospheric haze.

Think of a polarizer like a pair of sunglasses for your camera - just like polarizing sunglasses minimize glare off of water and other non-metallic surfaces, so too does a polarizer for your camera's lens.

Likewise, a polarizer deepens the blue color of the sky while also making the clouds pop. This gives much more life and dimension to the sky that adds that dramatic effect you often see in professional landscape photos.

Learn More:

Using a Polarizer

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There's really not much to using a polarizer to get improved landscape photos.

Simply attach the polarizer to the end of your lens and then rotate the polarizer in its housing to achieve the desired effect.

As you rotate the polarizer, look into the camera's viewfinder and you will see it do its work.

For example, if when you begin there is glare from the sun off of a body of water, watch as you turn the polarizer and that glare disappears.

There is one caveat, though...

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A polarizing filter works best when the sun is at a 90-degree angle. If the sun is directly behind you, the filter will not have any effect at all. At points between those two extremes, the filter's power will vary.

That means that you need to strive to find a shooting position that puts the sun at or near a 90-degree angle, otherwise you won't be able to get the full power of polarization out of your filter.

Naturally, you won't always be able to position yourself in such a way, but try to get as close to a right angle as you can. In the image above, you'll notice how the sun isn't at a 90-degree angle, yet the filter is still able to increase the contrast in the sky for a punchy look.

The key to mastering the art of using a polarizer, is, of course, practice.

Head to your favorite landscape spot and take a shot without a polarizer. Then mount your polarizer to your lens and take several shots as you increase the power of the filter between each frame.

You will see a dramatic difference between the shot without a filter and the shot with the polarizer working at its strongest filtering power, with noticeable differences between the two as well.

This exercise will also help you identify how much polarization you might need in a particular situation because you won't always want to use the polarizer at its highest power.

Get more details on how to use a circular polarizer in the video above by Joshua Cripps.

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Problems With Polarizers

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Adding a polarizer to your lens isn't without a couple of issues that you need to think about.

First, though a polarizer isn't especially dark, it will still reduce how much light enters the lens and reaches the camera's sensor.

In fact, some polarizers will reduce the amount of light by up to two or three stops.

That means you'll need to compensate for less light by adjusting your camera's exposure settings.

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For example, if you're shooting with your camera mounted on a tripod, you can use a slower shutter speed by a couple of stops to brighten the image up.

Similarly, you can open the aperture to allow more light to enter the lens. You can also boost the ISO setting to make the camera's sensor more sensitive to light.

Of course, you can also use a combination thereof to increase the brightness of the shot while minimizing the visual effects of a slower shutter, a wider aperture or a higher ISO.

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Another key point to remember is that you should focus the shot before you rotate the polarizer.

That will help your camera's autofocus system to find its focus point, or, if you're focusing manually, you'll have an easier time seeing with the polarizer at its minimum strength.

Naturally, since polarizers reduce the amount of light entering the lens, they are not ideally suited for shooting in low-light situations.

However, if you're shooting at dusk and there's glare or haze in the shot, you can use a polarizer - the process just becomes a little more difficult.

That's because you have to work a little harder to find the combination of exposure settings to get a well-exposed image.

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Final Thoughts

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As I noted earlier, if you want to add drama to your landscape photos, a polarizer is the way to go.

They're easy to use, have tons of impact, and if you buy a high-quality polarizer, it will only enhance your ability to create drama-filled landscape photos.

But beware - not all polarizers are made equal.

It pays to opt for a polarizer that's well-built, has quality glass, and is made by a company like Formatt-Hitech that has a longstanding reputation of putting out high-quality products.

In fact, their polarizers are among some of the best in the business because they come with an exclusive Firecrest anti-reflective multi-coating that give your images the highest color fidelity and contrast. What's more, the housing these filters are set in are precision milled for smooth, precise rotating action.

Visit Formatt-Hitech today to learn more about their polarizing filter. And when you order, just be sure to check the size of filter your lens needs so you order the right size. From there, it's a matter of practicing with your new filter, and soon enough, you'll have the drama-filled landscape photos you've been seeking.



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How to Create a More Interesting Photo

how to create a more interesting photo

How to create Interesting Photo?

If you aren't satisfied with how your photos are turning out, there are a ton of really easy things you can do to change things up.

In fact, there are some beginner photography tricks that literally take seconds to do, but can have a huge impact on how your photos look.

That being the case, here are a few of my favorite quick tips on learning how to create a more interesting photo.

Get In Close

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When you think of a portrait, what do you think of?

Something like the person's face or even their whole body, right?

What about a landscape?

You likely think of a wide-angle shot with lots of details, right?

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Those types of photos are all well and good, but there's beauty in the details that can be missed when you take a "traditional" shot.

By highlighting things like textures or patterns in a landscape, individual features like a person's eyes or hands in a portrait, and so forth, you create an image that's instantly different from all the others that you take.

That means that not only is the photo more unique, but as a result, it's also more interesting as well.

Shooting the details of a subject allows you to tell a different - and more intimate - story about what you're photographing.

It gives viewers a closer look, sure, but it also helps them to understand the subject a little bit better.

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Slow Down the Shutter

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Introducing long exposure effects into your photos is a surefire way to make them more interesting.

This is especially true when photographing landscapes during the daytime.

The problem, of course, is that if you extend the shutter speed to blur movement of things like clouds or water during the daytime, your images will be wildly overexposed.

That's why you need a solid neutral density filter to reduce the amount of light that reaches the camera sensor so that long shutter speeds can be used.

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I've used Formatt-Hitech neutral density filters for a while now, and I will never go back to my old brand.

These things are rock-solid with a build quality that's unparalleled. What's more, because Formatt-Hitech utilizes a rare earth metal coating, their ND filters are hyper neutral with no color casts.

Beyond that, the 2mm Schott Superwite glass is strong and durable while its multicoating offers incredible scratch resistance.

By using one of these filters, you can get ethereal-looking waterfalls and streams, as shown in the image at the beginning of this section, as well as flat water effects on lakes and oceans and streaky clouds, too.

Learn More:

Use a Tripod

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When I first started out in photography, I all but refused to use a tripod.

I shoot mostly landscapes, and I felt that a tripod held me back in the mobility department.

In other words, I was sacrificing image quality for image quantity. Needless to say, those early images weren't all that good...

A tripod can help you create more interesting photos in a lot of different ways.

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For starters, with a tripod like the Sirui A1205 shown above, you can give your camera the stable base it needs for taking ultra-sharp photos.

One of the most common ways that beginner photographers' photos fall flat is when they're blurry.

That blur is often chalked up to camera shake when hand holding the camera. Naturally, with your camera on a tripod, that's no longer a concern.

Just put your camera on the tripod and use the camera's self-timer or a remote shutter release to trigger the shutter, and sharper photos will be yours.

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A tripod also enables you to compose shots from interesting angles.

In looking at the Sirui A1205, for example, the dual-stage center column inverts so you can get ultra-low-angle photos.

Incorporating foreground elements into your images is a great way to add depth to them, and with a tripod that lets you put your camera just inches from the ground, you can make easy work of composing more interesting photos.

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And if you're worried about carrying all the extra weight of a tripod, don't be.

Tripod manufacturers have become highly adept at packing features into their tripods without adding tons of weight.

The A1205 tripod by Sirui weighs just two pounds. And if that's still too much, it quickly converts to an even lighter monopod, that way you have something to stabilize your camera even when you're wary of carrying too much gear.

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Take Your Time

tricks for better photos

There's something called the "spray and pray" method in photography that involves taking as many photos as possible and simply hoping that some of them turn out.

As you can imagine, this method is not the way to get the most interesting photos...

Naturally, when you're photographing action, firing off tons of shots is necessary.

But otherwise, taking a slower approach will help you find the scenes that look great (and take better pictures of those scenes, too).

beginner photography tricks

By taking a slow and steady approach, you can reap the benefits of better scene selection, improved compositions and framing, less mistakes with camera settings, and sharper photos, just to name a few.

With that, you have a few can't-miss tricks for better photos.

Remember, these are beginner photography tricks that will get you started on the right path to improved photography. But to master photography and really kick it up a notch, you'll need to dedicate yourself to continued learning and practice.

Learn More:



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How to Make Your Landscape Photography Better in 3 Simple Steps

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I love landscape photography, and I'm assuming that if you're reading this article, you do as well.

It's just so satisfying to capture the beauty of nature in a photo.

Well, if you get a good shot, that is!

Sometimes you just need to give your photos a little bit of love to make them more impactful.

Here's three quick tips that will help you do just that.

Pump Up the Contrast

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One of the first things that our eyes are drawn to when looking at a photo is contrast.

That is, contrast of light and contrast of color.

So, if your landscape photo looks a little blah, find ways to incorporate either more highlights and shadows, more color contrast, or both.

In the image above, you see a decent shot, but there's not a ton of contrast. Instead, the orange tones dominate the scene.

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However, in this example, there's much more contrast with more blue tones on the left side of the shot to balance out the orange tones on the right.

Compared to the first image, this one has much more visual appeal, thanks in large part to the improved contrast.

Editor's Tip: If contrast doesn't occur naturally in the shot, you can add highlights and shadows, as well as contrasting colors to the image in post-processing. Find out how to add life to your landscapes.

Use Filters to Your Advantage

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Using lens filters might be a little old school, but they work like a charm.

For landscape photographers, the first filter you should buy and start using is a polarizer.

These filters give you all sorts of advantages that help you create more dynamic images.

For starters, polarizers reduce atmospheric haze. That comes in handy when the background elements of the shot (like the mountains in the image above) seem a little dull and lifeless.

Firecrest Circular Polarizer

Likewise, top-notch polarizing filters like the Formatt-Hitech Circular Polarizer shown above, give your images incredible contrast and color fidelity.

As noted earlier, contrast is a prime feature of great photos, so using a polarizer can help you achieve a much better look. And since these filters are so well constructed, you get the results you want without flare, ghosting or other aberrations.

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What's more, polarizing filters add pop to the sky because they darken the blue tones of the atmosphere and brighten up clouds to make them appear whiter.

Again, that's another way to add contrast to your shots to give them more punch.

And if that's not enough, polarizing filters also reduce glare off of non-metallic surfaces, like water.

So, if you're photographing a landscape that includes a river, lake or other body of water, a polarizer can help bring out the color of the water without any sun glare.

What's not to like about that?!

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Pare It Down

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A common enemy of landscape photos is clutter.

That's because when we look at a landscape with our own two eyes, our brains automatically pick out the most important parts.

Our cameras don't do that. Instead, they record everything they see.

To improve your compositions, look for elements that grab your attention, and make them the focus of the shot, like the interesting rock formation in the image above.

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Alternatively, you can use negative space to your advantage to make your compositions more simple.

In the image above, there's a lot going on with the flowers, the tree trunk, the cliffs, and the ocean.

But by framing all of those details to the left side of the shot, thereby leaving a lot of real estate in the image filled with blank sky and ocean, the photo doesn't feel as cluttered as it otherwise would.

Editor's Tip: Learning to create dramatic landscape photos is easy. Find out how.

Final Thoughts

Better landscape photos is often just a matter of making a few small adjustments like those outlined in this article.

But sometimes it's not composition stuff that throws you off, but instead it's the camera settings you should be using that causes you problems.

In the video above, First Man Photography offers a quick tutorial on common landscape photography settings.

Give it a watch, and you'll be even more prepared to snag awesome landscape photos!



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How to Take Better Portraits With Your Smartphone

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If you're like me, you use your smartphone as much for photography as you do to talk or text.

It's the nature of the beast these days...

And where not that long ago photos taken with your smartphone left a lot to be desired in the quality and resolution department, that's no longer the case.

Today's smartphones are packed with photography features that help us all take better photos.

It's just a matter of using those features - and add-on accessories - to take those photos to yet another level.

Here's a few things to keep in mind that will help you take better portraits with your mobile phone.

Get a Lens

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Your phone's lens isn't bad, but with an add-on lens, it could be even better.

By that I mean that with an add-on lens like the Kenko Real Pro 0.65x Wide/Macro lens shown above, you get far more versatility out of your phone for taking photos.

On the one hand, a wide-angle lens is ideal for taking photos of groups of people - your friends at the beach, your family at a backyard BBQ, and so forth.

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Additionally, with a wide-angle lens, you can take selfies that actually incorporate more of your surroundings in the frame.

On the other hand, a wide-angle view is great for landscapes and cityscapes too.

But because this lens is a two-in-one, you can take awesome macro shots with it as well.

Just focus in on a small detail - a person's hands, for example - and take a unique and unexpected portrait

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When looking for an add-on lens for your phone, you want to get something that's got a good design and uses quality materials.

What I like about the Kenko lens is that it clips onto my phone. I don't need a special phone case. There's no weird mounts for the lens to screw into.

Instead, I just clip it on and start taking photos - it's as easy as that!

Kenko is also known worldwide for its quality materials, in this case, the fine-processed glass that make up the optical elements. 

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With other lenses, you have to worry about image degradation, but that's just not the case here.

Taking great portraits certainly depends on a lot of factors - your creative eye, your ability to communicate with the model, and the lighting, to name a few.

But as I've learned, by having the appropriate gear - and gear that's well made and easy to use - the quality of my smartphone portraits has benefitted greatly.

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Learn to Communicate

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Unless you're using your phone for street photography, you should constantly be giving your model feedback regarding what they're doing.

That means giving them direction about how they're posed, how they're smiling (or not smiling!), what they're doing with their hands, and so forth. After all, the portrait above didn't make itself - the photographer directed the model on how he should pose.

Additionally, tell them what your goal is - do you want them to look excited or sad? Pensive or angry? Should they sit or stand, look at the camera or off-camera?

The more communicative you are, the better your model will understand what they need to do so you can get the shot you want.

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Granted, if you're making a portrait of a baby or a dog, the lines of communication will be somewhat limited.

But that shouldn't stop you from giving them feedback in any way you can (i.e. baby talk for a baby or a treat for your dog when he's done what you want).

In the end, even saying things like "Yes, that's it!" or "You look beautiful!" are enough to give the model more confidence to continue doing what they're doing.

But if you just stand there behind your phone and offer nothing in the way of communication, you'll likely find that your model has no idea what to do - and your photos will suffer for it.

Learn More:

Make Manual Adjustments

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As powerful as today's smartphone cameras might be, they still have their limitations (thus the need for an add-on lens!).

That's why camera apps are a necessary addition to your smartphone.

By using something like VSCO Cam, you not only get an incredible suite of editing tools, but you also get more sophisticated camera controls.

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For example, you can shoot in RAW, adjust exposure compensation and white balance, and even set the shutter speed and ISO as well.

That last one - ISO - is extremely important because many native smartphone cameras will automatically adjust the ISO as the lighting conditions change. That's why photos in dim lighting are often so grainy, but as seen above, with VSCO, they aren't.

By taking those controls away from your phone and putting them in your hands, you're more likely to get the kind of portraits that make you say "WOW" as opposed to the ones that make you say "What went wrong?"

Learn More:

If you want even more great portrait photography tips for smartphones, check out the video below by Amanda Margareth:



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How to Take Killer Photos With a GoPro

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If I were to give prizes for the devices that have changed photography the most in the last decade, I'd give first place to smartphones and second place to GoPro.

If you don't agree, just hear me out on this...

I'd pick those two devices really for just two reasons: accessibility and mobility.

I mean, let's face it - not everyone can afford a DSLR, and no one wants to lug around a big digital camera when they're on an adventure.

Smartphones and GoPros solve both of those problems.

And even though they might not be as capable of taking the same quality of shots as a DSLR or mirrorless camera, they've both certainly come a long way.

In this article, I'd like to outline a few tips for improving your GoPro photography. Who knows, you might even fool people into thinking your photos are taken with a more traditional camera!

You Still Need to Plan

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As I've already noted, one of the best qualities of a GoPro camera is that they're incredibly mobile.

That feature means GoPros are ideal for off-the-cuff shots in difficult situations, like in the water.

However, off-the-cuff shots are seldom very good quality, so even though GoPros are great for spontaneous photos, if you want quality photos you still need to plan your shots.

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That means considering how you want to compose and frame the shot, thinking about lighting, and having a strong subject in the frame.

That also means using tried-and-true photography rules to improve the visual interest in the shot - the rule of thirds, leading lines, and incorporating foreground interest, to name a few.

And since we're talking about a highly mobile camera, think about finding unique perspectives from which you can compose the shot. Put your GoPro on the ground, mount it to your bike handlebars, attach it to a trekking pole and hold it above your head. The possibilities are endless for your creativity!

Learn More:

Gear Up

Hero4 Holder Pack 

You'd never go out on a photo shoot with your DSLR or mirrorless camera without a tripod or a remote or a set of filters (at least, hopefully, you wouldn't!).

So why would you not take those things along when you're shooting with your GoPro?

I'm not saying you need to strap a full-size tripod to your back the next bike ride you go on with your GoPro attached to your helmet, but it's a good idea to take along a mini tripod, a jaws clamp to mount your GoPro to virtually anything, and a good set of filters, too.

The advantage of a tripod and a jaws clamp is that you have a means of providing a stable base for your GoPro to get tack-sharp images, and you're able to attach it to just about anything to find unique perspectives for taking your photos.

Hero4 Elite Kit

But something that some GoPro photographers neglect to think about is taking along a set of filters for their camera.

Formatt-Hitech makes a complete line of GoPro filters and accessories that will help you elevate the quality of your photos to another level.

For example, their Hero3+/Hero4 Elite Kit shown above includes a camera holder, three clear protectors, a UV filter, a circular polarizer, and two neutral density filters.

Not only does that mean you have a way to protect your GoPro from damage, but in the case of a circular polarizer, that also means you can get images like the one below, which have improved contrast in the sky, less atmospheric haze, and reduced glare from the water.

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Additionally, the inclusion of a 0.6 and 0.9 neutral density filters means you can take long exposure shots.

You can blur the movement of the water or the clouds, or since we're talking about a camera for adventure, you can even blur the movement of a friend (or yourself!) as you ski, surf, or ride your bike through the camera's path.

The beauty of these filters is that they're made from the same high-quality glass used in Formatt-Hitech's award-winning filters for traditional cameras. They're just slimmed down for use with a GoPro.

That means you can get even more creative with the images you take and get results that are sure to wow.

Learn More:

Use Your GoPro's Settings to Your Advantage

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Sure, your GoPro doesn't have all the bells and whistles and settings of a pro-level DSLR, but it's no slouch either.

That means that you need to learn how to use its settings to help you take improved photos.

We all know that GoPros are good on land and at sea, so take it with you whether you're on the beach or a boat. A GoPro Hero4 like the one shown above is good up to more than 131 feet underwater, so take it down to the depths with you too!

And it's not just good for daytime shots, either.

With an ISO range up to 6400, when dusk hits, you can just boost the ISO to help you get better low-light shots.

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The Hero4 also has several white balance settings to help you combat color casts in your images, continuous shooting speeds up to 10fps for fast-action shots, shutter speeds to 30 seconds long for pleasing long exposures, and even up to +/- 2EV to help you brighten or darken your images as you see fit.

And, of course, that's not even to mention its 4K video capabilities for creating stunning action movies.

The point here is that GoPro cameras are much more capable than you think. And when you combine its capabilities with some purposeful compositional choices and a kit that includes a tripod, jaw clamp, and high-quality filters, you've got a recipe for GoPro photography success.

If you need a little inspiration for GoPro photography and videography, check out the video above by GoPro.

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How to Take Vertical Landscape Photos

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When we look out at a landscape with our own two eyes, we perceive it on the horizontal axis.

So it makes sense that when we photograph those same landscapes that we automatically default to shooting them horizontally.

And while that horizontal view is just fine, there are times when turning our cameras to the vertical axis results in a much better photo.

That being the case, here are a few essential landscape photography tips that will teach you how to take vertical landscape photos.

Landscape Photography Tip: Divide the Shot Into Zones

how to take vertical landscape photos

To get the strongest composition, it's a good idea to divide your photo into zones - foreground, midground, and background.

Then, ensure that you've got something of interest in each of the three zones.

Not only does this help you create a well-balanced image, but it also helps you to help move the viewer's eye from one part of the image to the next.

For example, notice how there are distinct zones in the shot above - the golden foreground grasses, the dark green trees in the midground, and the bright swath of light in the background.

Each area is distinct, yet the are also interconnected to create a compelling visual experience.

How to Take Vertical Landscape Photos: It's All About the Angle

landscape photography tips

One of the greatest benefits of shooting in vertical aspect is that it allows you to include more foreground in the shot.

And since the foreground is what helps draw the viewer's eyes deeper into the image and toward the main subject, including a foreground rife with detail will only do your landscape photos a favor.

To make a real statement with the foreground, get down low and close to a foreground element. Learn more about outdoor photography guide on our website PhotographyTalk.com.

In the image above, taking a low shooting position looking upward makes this waterfall seem larger and more powerful.

What's more, the closeness of the boulder in the foreground highlights its size, shape, and color, as well as the texture of the plants growing on it.

Landscape Photography Technique: Embrace Negative Space

landscape photography technique

One of the great things about shooting vertical aspect photos is that it allows you to emphasize the height of the landscape.

And a technique that you can use to highlight that verticality is to incorporate negative space at the top of the shot.

In the image above, you can see this concept at work.

By placing the horizon very low in the frame, the photographer is able to highlight the size and scope of the sunset above.

Though there are times when it behooves you to get up close and take a shot that fills the frame, as you can see, doing the opposite can result in a fine photo as well.

Landscape Photography Gear Tip: Use Lens Filters

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I'm all for using the likes of Lightroom and Photoshop to enhance my photos, but if you ask me, there's nothing better than using filters to get the look you want in your images.

Besides, as powerful as post-processing photos have become, they still can't match the quality that good filters, like those from Formatt-Hitech, can give your photos.

In fact, every photographer (yes, even beginners!) need a set of filters that will help them enhance their photos. These include:

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In other words, having high-quality filters enables you to get better shots, and more creative ones as well.

I utilize Formatt-Hitech filters because they are precision-crafted to give me images that have excellent contrast, color fidelity, and sharpness, without all the ghosting, flare, and other aberrations that you get with lower-quality filters.

When you're shooting vertical landscape photo (and horizontal ones, too!), do yourself a favor and increase your chances of a great shot by using Formatt-Hitech filters.



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How to Use a Graduated ND Filter

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If you photograph landscapes, one of the best pieces of kit you can buy is a graduated ND filter.

These neutral density filters can be life-savers in situations in which there is a wide dynamic range, or, in other words, a sky that's a lot brighter than the landscape.

Naturally, this is a situation that's often encountered in landscape photography, which is why having a graduated ND is so important.

The question is, how do you use a graduated ND filter?

ND Grad Types and Uses

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To begin, it's important to note that not all graduated ND filters are made alike.

Cheap, poorly made filters won't do you any favors as they will reduce the sharpness of your photos and are more likely to create color casts in your images.

Instead, when buying a graduated ND filter (or any filter, for that matter), you want to outfit yourself with something that's high-quality and durable.

For my money, that means going with Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Ultra Graduated ND filters, like the one shown below.

graduated nd

These filters are made with a lap and polish technique, which gives them incredible durability for long-lasting performance.

What's more, the lap and polish process produces filters that are hyper-neutral, meaning you don't have to worry about color abnormalities in your photos.

Instead, you get professional-grade results that are the peak of clarity and sharpness.

how to use a graduated nd filter

Using graduated ND filters requires an understanding of the different types that are available.

Primarily, there's soft-edge grads and hard-edge grads.

The former has a wide area of transition from the filtered to the non-filtered area. These are ideal for use when photographing landscapes that do not have a definite horizon, as shown above. 

Hard-edge grads, on the other hand, abruptly shift from filtered to non-filtered glass.

That hard transition is ideal for situations in which there is a distinct, flat horizon.

Since most landscapes do not have a definite horizon, a soft-edge grad is usually the best bet for most situations.

Learn More:

How to Use a Graduated ND Filter

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The best time of day to use a graduated ND filter is in the morning or the evening, near sunrise or sunset.

That's because at this time of day, the sun is illuminating the sky, making it quite bright, but often the landscape is cast in shadow, making it quite dark.

Now, there are different strengths of filters, which are measured in stops. The higher the stop, the more filtering power.

Since the sky is usually brighter than the landscape by about 3-5 stops in typical conditions, a 3-stop graduated ND will do the trick most often.

However, if the sky is really, really bright, you can add a 2-stop filter in front of a 3-stop filter to get 5 total stops of power.

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To put the graduated ND filter's powers to good use, you have to have a filter that mounts to the end of your lens via an adaptor ring that's sized for your specific lens.

These holders, like the one shown above, help create a tight seal between the filter and the end of the lens.

You need that tight seal to prevent light leaks or reflections off the filter from interfering with the shot.

All you have to do is slide the graduated ND into the filter holder, adjust its positioning by either taking a test shot and examining the results, or using live view to make adjustments before taking a photo.

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Now, since a graduated ND filter darkens the sky, and you already have a darkened landscape, you might find that the images you initially take are underexposed.

To correct for this, you will need to adjust your exposure settings to brighten the image.

If you're shooting in aperture priority mode, you can easily open the aperture by a stop or two or boost the ISO to get a brighter image, and the camera will adjust the shutter speed to get a good exposure.

If you're dabbling with longer exposures, shoot in shutter priority mode, make adjustments to the shutter speed and ISO to brighten the exposure, and the camera will adjust the aperture as needed to get a well-exposed image.

Get a complete tutorial on using ND grads in the video above by Professional Photography Tips.

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Using Graduated Neutral Density Filters Requires Some Fine Tuning

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Slapping a graduated ND in front of your lens and firing off shots isn't how to get the best results.

Instead, you'll need to fine-tune the positioning of the filter on the vertical and horizontal axes.

That means shifting the filter up and down in the holder to determine the best spot relative to the horizon.

That also means rotating the filter holder to accommodate horizons that aren't straight.

It's also a good idea to take multiple test shots, including every time you adjust the positioning of the filter.

This allows you to get eyes on the results and make further adjustments as needed.

Using your histogram as a guideline for how the exposure is looking is also critical.

As shown in the graph above, your camera's histogram is a graphical representation of the highlights, shadows, and midtones in the photo.

You want the histogram to peak in the middle and fall off towards the left (shadows) and right (highlights).

If you aren't familiar with using a histogram, refer to this detailed guide.

With that, you have a quick how-to guide for mastering the use of a graduated ND filter!



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How to Use Negative Space in Landscape Photography

negative space vs positive space

My biggest passion in photography is photographing landscapes.

There's a lot of reasons for this, but chief among them is that there are simply so many types of landscapes that can be used to create beautiful landscape photos. In many cases, landscapes have lots of features - mountains, trees, water, plants, rocks, beaches, rolling hills - you name it.

But sometimes, crafting a minimalist landscape image is a fun challenge.

I say it's a challenge because finding wide open spaces with little detail can be difficult in and of itself.

But beyond that, using negative space in photography and doing it well requires a good photography eye and a great attention to detail.

In the video above, Thomas Heaton documents his journey with negative space photography.

Below, I've outlined a few landscape photography tips Thomas discusses.

Editor's Tip: Improve the quality of your landscape photography by utilizing filters. Find the right filters for you.

In Negative Space Photography, You Still Need a Strong Subject

positive and negative space

Just because you're looking for a landscape that's got a lot of open space doesn't mean that you don't still need a strong subject.

But when working with negative space, you don't necessarily need a big, hulking subject in your photo.

Since there's nothing in the negative space to draw the attention of the viewer, the subject can be something small, even delicate.

A stone or a rock, textures left in the sand by crashing waves, a single flower, and so forth can all be used as a strong subject that draws the viewer's eyes into the photo.

Get Outfitted With Proper Gear

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One thing you'll find when shooting positive and negative space is that a great way to ramp up the interest in the shot is to extend the shutter speed.

Even by using a shutter speed of just a few seconds, you can begin to see beautiful blur in clouds and water that make your photos - regardless of the subject - more compelling.

Of course, using a long shutter speed requires that you have a solid tripod to support your camera while the shutter is open. A camera remote is also a handy tool to have so you can trigger the shutter without actually touching the camera.

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Another must-have piece of gear you need for landscape photography is a good set of filters.

I never leave the house without a polarizing filter, a couple of graduated neutral density filters, and a few solid neutral density filters as well.

That's because filters give you so much more visual impact in your photos, not to mention making post-processing a simpler task because you have fewer things to fix and tweak.

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Here's what these filters can do for your landscape photos:

  • Polarizer - Reduces glare, reduces atmospheric haze, boosts contrast in the sky
  • Graduated ND - Reduces the dynamic range, specifically, darkens the sky so that you can get a well-exposed image throughout
  • Solid ND - Reduces light entering the lens so you can extend the shutter speed for daytime long exposures.

This is a very quick and basic explanation of these filters.

Editor's Tip: A high-quality lens filter can make all the difference in how your landscape photos turn out. Get outfitted with landscape photography filters.

Good Light is a Must

negative space in photographyYouTube Screenshot/Thomas Heaton

Obviously, you need good light to get a good photo.

But beyond light's role in the exposure of the image, in negative space photography, light can provide something else that can benefit your photos - color.

If you shoot at sunrise or sunset, for example, the brilliant rays of the sun can add warmth to the shot. Learn more about camera settings for sunrise on our website PhotographyTalk.com.

What's more, you can use that light to help draw people deeper into the shot.

In Thomas' photo above, you can see how the textures of the sand invite you in, and then your eyes are pulled toward the background by the warm tones of the sunset.

Again, you don't need a ton of detail in negative space photography - just enough to pique the viewer's interest.

Wrapping It Up

negative space photography

Taking gorgeous negative space photos (well, any type of photo) is a process.

You have to plan ahead, have the right gear and tools to get the job done, develop an eye for details, and, of course, practice.

Using negative space might seem a little scary, simply because it's so different from what we normally see in landscape photography.

But if you can master the steps outlined above, you will be well on your way to mastering negative space in photography.



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Important Lessons You Need to Learn About Landscape Photography

landscape photography lessonsImage Credit: VisualCommunications via iStock

It's been a long time since I first picked up a camera, and I like to think that over the years that I've learned a thing or two, especially about landscapes.

When I'm out shooting, landscapes are my favorite subject and the subject that I shoot most often.

And while it's a difficult pursuit to get a fantastic landscape photo, there are a few tried-and-true lessons that have helped me step up my game.

Here's a few landscape photography tips I've learned that will help you maximize the results you get when photographing landscapes.

Patience is a Must

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People that know me know that I'm not the most patient person in the world.

That's a personality trait that has gotten me in trouble more times than I can count, especially in my pursuit of gorgeous landscape photos.

But what I learned long ago is that if I want the best images, I have to be patient. There's simply no way around it.

Sure, there's times when you can pull over on the side of the road, grab your camera, and take an incredible shot without all that much effort. But those sort of shots are few and far between.

What's much more likely to happen is that you have to plan your outing, do a ton of research on the location, walk or hike to your chosen destination, and hope that the weather works out.

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On a smaller, scale, you have to be patient with the process of every shot, too.

For example, early in my career I rushed from one location to the next trying to get as many epic shots as I could. 

But that approach hindered my results. I ended up with a ton of photos, none of which were especially good.

Instead, focus your time and energy on one location. Sometimes, you might spend the entire outing working on a single shot!

Naturally, that kind of approach demands the utmost of patience, but it's an approach that could very well get you the spectacular shots you dream of taking.

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Filters are Not Optional

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Today we have more tools at our disposal for creating breathtaking photos than ever before. That includes the likes of Photoshop and Lightroom to correct mistakes and enhance our photos.

But as great as post-processing software has become, it still can't match the look and feel added to your photos by using real-life filters.

Call me old school, but I've found that the images I create with filters are much more dynamic and satisfying than the ones I create using only post-processing techniques.

In addition to getting better-looking results, filters also get you more deeply involved in the photographic process.

For me, I like the hands-on nature of filters and attaching them to my lens and adjusting them to get the perfect result. I also enjoy the problem-solving component of it - like what density of neutral density filter I need to get the desired look.

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Of course, success with filters depends not only on your talents and skills as a photographer but on the filters you use as well.

I've tried a ton of filters over the years, many of which were terrible. Some were okay, too.

But by far, the best filters I've used are those by Formatt-Hitech. In fact, Formatt-Hitech's Colby Brown Signature Edition Filter Kit is an ideal purchase for any landscape photographer.

This kit has a Firecrest Ultra ND 1.8 filter, a Firecrest Ultra ND Soft Edge Grade 0.6 filter, and a Firecrest Ultra ND Reverse Grad 0.6 filter.

That means you can tackle long exposures, manage difficult lighting, and take better sunset photos, all with just three filters.

landscape photography filter 

What's more, if you get the 100mm kit, you also get a Firecrest 100mm Filter Holder, an adaptor ring, three step rings, and a soft touch outer case.

Also included is a Firecrest 82mm Ultraslim Polarizing filter, pouches for each filter, and an exclusive booklet by world-renowned photographer Colby Brown.

I don't mean to gush here, but to say that I've been impressed with my Formatt-Hitech filters is an understatement.

If you're ready to take your landscape photography to the next level, trust me when I say that a good set of filters will help you do just that.

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Tell a Story With Your Photos

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If you ask me, what sets great photos apart from good photos is that the great ones tell a compelling story.

Photos can tell stories in many different ways - with the setting or the lighting, by changing the composition or framing, and by the mood or emotion in the shot.

For example, the golden light of a sunrise or sunset can be used to create an image that tells a hopeful story or one of renewal.

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As another example, you might take a very low shooting perspective and shoot upwards towards a subject - a waterfall or a tall stand of trees - to make the viewer feel small and appreciate the vastness of the natural world around us.

Heck, you might even add a person to your landscape photos and utilize their presence to tell a story that weaves the human experience in with that of the landscape around them.

The point is that photos that tell stories are more meaningful to you and have more visual impact for viewers as well.

Combined with the other tips I've outlined above, these landscape photography lessons are a great place to start for improving the quality of your photos!

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Increase Depth in Your Landscape Photos Using These Simple Tricks

iStock 182042330 minImage Credit: Scacciamosche via iStock

How often do you see a gorgeous landscape, only to see your photos of that landscape and feel underwhelmed by the results?

It's a common problem for photographers of all skill levels because what we see with our eyes and how we see it is not the same as how our cameras see the same scene.

Our eyes immediately pick up depth and dimension thanks to our binocular vision. Our cameras? Not so much...

The trick is to help our cameras capture that depth and dimension for more interesting photos. Here's how.

Wait for the Best Light

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Landscape photography is best undertaken during golden hour - that hour or so of warm, soft light just after sunrise and just before sunset.

In addition to the light having beautiful color and softness, it also gives great dimensionality to the landscape.

The lower the sun is on the horizon, the longer the shadows are that it casts across the landscape.

Those shadows, combined with sunny areas that are bathed in golden light, make for a landscape that appears much more three-dimensional in your two-dimensional image.

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Layer Your Compositions

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One of the challenges of photography is to make a two-dimensional representation of what you see feel as though it's three-dimensional.

In addition to taking advantage of golden hour lighting to increase the perception of depth, you can also layer your compositions to give viewers the impression of dimension.

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By that, I mean that if you incorporate elements into the foreground, midground, and background of your landscape photos, they will seem much more representative of the three-dimensional scene that you see with your eyes.

Having objects of interest in each of these three areas prevent your photos from looking flat because they help draw the viewer in and move the viewer's eyes through the image.

And while it's important to have a strong subject in your landscape photos - something that immediately grabs the viewer's attention, if you ask me, the foreground is where the success of layering begins.

Without something in the foreground to establish depth in the shot, it's far more difficult to create something that feels three-dimensional.

What's more, the foreground is like the introduction to the shot, and without it, the image might feel disjointed.

For that reason, the foreground is one of the most important parts of your landscape photos - it brings people into the shot and serves as the introduction to the visual story you wish to tell with your images.

For more details on how to use the foreground to add depth to your photos, check out the video above by NatureTTL.

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Use a Polarizing Filter for Added Depth

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Yet another way to give your landscape photos the detail they need to have more depth is to use a polarizing filter like the one shown above and below by Formatt-Hitech.

A polarizing filter is a must-have for any landscape photographer because they can have so many different positive impacts on your images.

For starters, a polarizing filter helps minimize glare off of non-metallic surfaces like water. With less glare, your images not only have one less distraction to minimize the quality of the shot, but you are more likely to capture an image in which the viewer can actually see into the water and pick up details like rocks underneath the water's surface.

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Another benefit of using a polarizing filter is that it boosts the contrast in the sky.

That means that your photos will have a deeper blue atmosphere and brighter white clouds with more detail.

On top of that, polarizing filters reduce atmospheric haze, which helps ratchet up the visibility and detail of distant features in the landscape, like far-off mountain peaks.

In other words, there are few photography accessories that do as much for your landscape photos as a polarizer. If you don't have one, I highly recommend you pick one up sooner rather than later!

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Just be careful when you select a polarizing filter because they aren't all made alike.

Some, like my Formatt-Hitech polarizer, offer superior build-quality and performance that help you get the most out of your images.

Others are cheaply made and aren't durable at all, meaning, if anything, the quality of your images might be diminished.

Though Formatt-Hitech polarizers might be a little more expensive than other brands, that extra money is more than worth it when you get a polarizer that is made of Schott Superwite glass and has multicoating that makes it resistant to water and scratches.

Just like you want to put your money towards the best lens you can afford, you also want to put your money towards the best filters you can afford. And in my experience, Formatt-Hitech filters are among the best in the business!

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Is a Full Frame or Crop Sensor Camera Better for Landscape Photography?

iStock 676406040 min

The great thing about landscape photography is that there is just so much to photograph...

Mountains, rivers, beaches, sunsets, deserts - you name it!

But with such a wide range of potential subject matter out there, that means that landscape photographers usually have to have a pretty broad kit that's flexible enough to meet such varied needs.

Of course, not everyone has the budget to buy duplicate gear, like having a full frame and a crop sensor camera body in your kit.

So that begs the question, if you like to photograph landscapes, is a full frame or a crop sensor a better bet?

Let's find out...

The Case for Full Frame Landscape Photography

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There are several reasons why a photographer would upgrade to a full frame camera.

First, they offer superior image quality because they have larger sensors. For example, a full frame camera's sensor is the equivalent size of a 35mm piece of film, or roughly 36mm x 24mm. By contrast, a crop sensor is much smaller, on average about 26mm x 22mm.

With all that extra space for more pixels (and larger ones at that), that means that full frame sensors produce images that are more detailed, especially if you're shooting in low-light situations, like photographing the night sky, as seen above.

Additionally, with a higher resolution sensor comes higher resolution prints. That means that if your goal is to print out huge images, a full frame will be the better bet.

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The second reason photographers upgrade to a full frame camera is that it offers expanded depth of field options.

That is, the larger a camera's sensor, the shallower the depth of field it can achieve, especially at medium focal lengths and wide-angle focal lengths.

Now, most landscape photographers will operate on the opposite end - with a very large depth of field. However, with a full frame, you can more easily experiment with the artistic representation of the subject because you have a greater capability of throwing the background (or foreground) into blurry goodness.

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A final reason why photographers might opt for a full frame camera is the angle of view it provides.

Since full frame cameras have a crop factor of 1:1 (where many crop sensor cameras might be anywhere from 1.3x to 2x), they can capture more of the scene in the shot.

For example, when shooting with a wide-angle lens like a 14mm, a full frame camera can capture the entire angle of view of that lens.

However, that same lens on a crop sensor camera might behave like a 22mm lens (depending on the crop factor), so you can't fit as much of the scene into the shot.

The Case for Crop Sensor Landscape Photography

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As noted above, the strengths of a full frame camera are really the downfalls of a crop sensor camera.

But that's a two-way street...

One of the primary reasons why photographers might choose a crop sensor camera for landscape photography is the price.

Not only do full frame cameras tend to be more expensive than crop sensors, but lenses for full frame cameras also tend to be more expensive.

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Another issue with full frames is that the camera bodies are bigger, bulkier, and heavier, which, if you're a landscape photographer that does a lot of hiking around, that can be a bit of an issue.

Crop sensor cameras don't need to be as big because the sensor is smaller, so they offer the advantage of being lighter weight and easier to maneuver.

What's more, though they have smaller sensors, crop sensor cameras have come a long way in the resolution department. Though the images you take with a crop sensor camera still can't match the resolution of those taken on a full frame, they are nonetheless high enough quality that you can create pretty large prints without losing sharpness and detail.

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Another benefit of landscape photography with a crop sensor body is the impact they have on the effective focal length of a lens.

Remember, as I noted earlier, a full frame camera has a 1:1 crop factor, so a 24mm lens acts like a 24mm lens.

But where full frame cameras offer the advantage of capturing more of the scene, crop sensor cameras offer the advantage of extending the reach of a lens for more intimately framed shots, like the one shown above.

So, that same 24mm lens on a crop sensor body will act like a 38mm lens (though that varies depending on the crop factor). That means that with a crop sensor body, you can use standard lenses as short telephotos, short telephotos as long telephotos, and so forth.

If your subjects tend to be wildlife, for example, this gives you an obvious advantage because you can get closer shots without having to spring for a giant (and expensive) lens.

So, Which is Best?

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When it comes down to choosing between a full frame or a crop sensor camera for landscape photography, the answer to "Which is best?" is a big, fat "It depends."

If you want higher resolution images and better low-light performance, a full frame camera is the way to go.

If budget is a concern or you want to use crop factor to give your lenses a longer effective focal length, a crop sensor camera is the better bet.

It really just depends on what your goals are for your photography and how much money you have to spend to achieve those goals.

How to Improve Your Landscape Photos Regardless of the Camera

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Of course, the quality of the landscape photos you take doesn't just depend on the camera you use.

In fact, I'd argue that there are much more important factors at play...

The quality of the lenses you use certainly influences the quality of your shots because a high-end lens with quality optics will produce sharper, more detailed images than a low-brow kit lens every single time.

Using a good tripod to give your camera stability and ensure that your images are level will also do wonders for the images you take.

formatthitechcolbybrown1 min

Another important accessory to have as a landscape photographer is a good set of filters.

I know this might be a bit of an old-school recommendation given how powerful post-processing programs have become, but when it comes down to it, the effects you can achieve in-camera with good filters are still way, WAY better than what you can conjure up on your laptop.

That's especially true of Formatt-Hitech filters which are made of the finest materials such that you can get the highest quality photos.

Their Colby Brown Signature Edition Landscape Photography Filter Kit is an ideal setup for landscape photography enthusiasts.

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That's because the kit comes with everything you need to take your photos to the next level:

  • A Firecrest UltraSlim Polarizing Filter, which cuts down glare, reduces haze, and improves contrast in the sky.
  • A Firecrest 6-Stop Neutral Density Filter for creating gorgeous daytime long exposures that accentuate the movement of clouds and water.
  • A Firecrest 2-Stop Soft Edge Graduated Neutral Density Filter for darkening bright skies and evening out the dynamic range between the sky and the landscape.
  • A Firecrest 2-Stop Reverse Graduated Neutral Density Filter for taking improved photos at sunrise and sunset.

In other words, no matter what sort of landscape you want to photograph, this kit has the filters you need!

The kit also comes with a 100mm filter holder, adaptor and step rings, filter pouches, and an exclusive Colby Brown booklet to inspire your work.

Learn More:

So, no matter if you elect to photograph landscapes with a full frame or a crop sensor camera, do yourself a favor and set yourself up for success with the right accessories.

Spend your money on a good lens (or several), a rock-solid tripod, and a top-notch set of filters like those from Formatt-Hitech.

In the end, those accessories may very well have a bigger impact on the quality of your photos than the camera you use.



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Landscape Photography Accessories You Can't Live Without

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When it comes to landscape photography accessories, there's no shortage of possibilities out there.

There's the essentials, like filters, a solid tripod, and a camera remote.

There's the peripheral stuff too, like a couple of good, fast memory cards, a headlamp, a camera rain cover, and the like.

You might even count a couple of good prime lenses or a zoom amongst the accessories landscape photographers can't live without.

But let's assume you have the bare bones - a camera body, a lens, and a tripod. What should you get next?

If you ask me, there's no doubt that your next purchase should be a set of filters.

Why You Need Filters for Landscape Photography

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When I first started out in photography, I assumed - wrongly - that I could get incredible landscape photos without a tripod, without a camera remote, and without filters.

Guess what? I now have all of those accessories in my bag.

I added filters to my kit far too late, though.

You need filters because they expand your creative capabilities and allow you to overcome common obstacles to getting the best landscape photos.

I'll dive into it in more detail below, but the short version is that filters can help you get a well-exposed image, they can minimize glare, make the clouds pop, help you take long exposures, bring out textures and colors in the landscape, and so forth.

Let's have a look at three of the most important filters you can buy as a landscape photographer and examine how each helps you create better photos.

Polarizing Filter

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The purpose of a polarizing filter is to improve the quality of your landscape photos. They do this in a number of ways:

  • Remove glare from non-metallic surfaces like water and foliage, giving the image a more natural appearance.
  • Increase contrast between the clouds and the sky, making clouds brighter and whiter on a sky that's a deeper blue, as seen in the image above.
  • Reduce haze, making landscapes appear cleaner and sharper.

What's more, a polarizer boosts the saturation of the entire scene, making colors throughout look more vibrant. As noted above, this is particularly true for the sky, but it's also true for green tones in the image.

The key to using a polarizer is to try and place the sun at a right angle to your shooting position, as in this position the polarizer will have the most impact.

Firecrest Circular Polarizer

But be wary of buying cheap polarizers - they can often do more harm than good!

Instead, look for a polarizer that has a superslim or ultraslim ring like the Firecrest Circular Polarizer by Formatt-Hitech shown above.

Otherwise, the ring might cause vignetting in the photo. Also look for polarizers with anti-reflective coating to ensure the best color contrast and fidelity of colors.

Neutral Density Filter

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When you see images like the one above in which the water is beautifully blurred, the first thing you should think about is a neutral density filter.

A neutral density filter lets you use longer shutter speeds to get those kinds of motion effects that would otherwise be impossible to achieve in daylight.

That's because a neutral density filter blocks out sunlight (to varying degrees, depending on the strength of the filter). Think of it like sunglasses for your camera.

Neutral density filters have a consistent level of light blockage throughout the entire filter, and that blockage has no effect on colors, thus the name "neutral."

Using a neutral density filter is easy, too:

  • Select the lowest ISO value on your camera.
  • Select an aperture that maximizes depth of field, say, f/11.
  • Frame the shot, acquiring focus at the point you wish.
  • Select a shutter speed that's slow enough to get the blurred movement you desire.
  • Add your neutral density filter to your lens.
  • Take the shot.

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In many cases, a three-stop neutral density filter like the 2mm Firecrest shown above is enough to block out enough light to get motion blur.

However, in extremely bright lighting conditions - like at mid-day on a sunny day - you will need more light-blocking power, like a 10-stop, 13-stop, or even 16-stop neutral density filter.

Again, when looking for neutral density filters, you don't want to get the cheapest thing you can find.

Instead, you want something that's not going to influence the colors in the shot and that gives you excellent light-stoppage from one corner to the next.

Graduated Neutral Density Filters

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Where a neutral density filter reduces the amount of light entering the lens evenly throughout the whole scene, a graduated neutral density filter has a gradient effect.

At the top of the filter, the light-stopping power is most significant; at the bottom of the filter, the light-stopping power is virtually non-existent.

The reason for this is because many landscapes are often quite dark while the sky above them is quite bright.

By having that gradual change from no filtering power on the bottom to significant filtering power on the top, you can bring the dark landscape and bright sky into a more even range and balance the exposure.

With a more balanced exposure, you don't have to worry about clipped highlights or lost shadow detail.

Like traditional neutral density filters, graduated NDs come in a variety of strengths, the most common of which are 1-stop, 2-stop, and 3-stops.

Resin ND Soft Grad

There are several types of graduated ND filters:

  • Soft-edge grad (like the Firecrest 1-stop ND grad shown above) that have a very gradual transition from filtered to non-filtered. These are ideal for landscapes in which the horizon isn't definite.
  • Hard-edge grad in which the transition from filtered to non-filtered is much more abrupt. These are ideal for landscapes with definite horizons, like looking out at the ocean.
  • Reverse grad in which the top of the filter is dark, the middle of the filter is even darker, and the bottom of the filter is not filtered at all. These are ideal for sunsets and sunrises when the brightest area of the scene is in the middle.

No matter which kind of graduated ND filter you buy, the effect will be the same - the dynamic range in the shot will be lessened, thus allowing your camera to get a better exposure.

By taking care of the dynamic range in the field, that means less work in post-processing to try to recover details in the highlighted and shadowed areas.

If you ask me, less work after the fact is a good thing!



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Landscape Photography Basics for Beginners

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The nice thing about landscape photography is that you can take great photos with any gear, whether it's your smartphone or a professional-grade DSLR.

Of course, the key to taking stunning landscape photos isn't really the gear, but what you do with the gear.

With that in mind, here's a few basic beginner landscape photography tips that will help you improve the quality of your photos right now, today.

Find a Way to Show Scale

Sometimes, it's hard to convey to the viewer the size and scale of the landscape you're photographing.

Without that understanding, viewers might not understand how grand and beautiful the landscape actually is.

To help give your landscape photos a better sense of scale, incorporate a familiar element like a bicycle, a dog or a person.

If you place an element like this in the foreground of the shot, viewers will not only get a better idea of the scale of the scene, but they'll also have a strong focal point that draws them into the shot (more on that next...).

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There Needs to Be a Strong Focal Point

As gorgeous as a landscape might be, it might suffer from having too many things to delight the eye.

I know this sounds a little strange - having too much beauty in the shot - but if there's not one strong, central focal point, the viewer's eyes might be confused as to where they're supposed to look first.

A strong focal point fixes this problem.

On the one hand, a strong focal point might be something in the landscape - a sun-kissed mountain peak, an interesting old tree (as shown above), or a meandering stream that takes the eye from foreground to background.

But as noted above, adding an element into the foreground (like a person) helps ground the image, give it some scale, and bring attention to the foreground.

By directing the attention of viewers to the foreground of your landscape photos, you bring them to the "introduction" of the shot.

From there, they can move their eyes deeper, first to the midground and then to the background, for a complete viewing experience.

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Use Filters

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If you shoot with a DSLR or mirrorless camera system, you need filters.

Why?

Well, the short answer is that filters are an invaluable tool for improving the quality of your landscape photos.

The long answer is that there are various types of filters, each with its unique set of benefits for landscape photographers.

Firecrest Circular Polarizer

For example, a polarizing filter helps cut down on glare off of non-metallic surfaces, like water. Polarizers also reduce atmospheric haze and increase the contrast between the blue sky and white clouds.

In other words, a polarizer, like the Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Circular Polarizer shown above, is a swiss-army knife type of filter that can improve your photos in multiple ways.

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Another must-have filter is a graduated neutral density filter.

Graduated ND filters help you overcome one of the most common problems in landscape photography - dynamic range.

That is, the sky is often quite bright and the landscape itself can be quite dark. The majority of cameras cannot overcome those differences on their own, so they need a little help.

A graduated ND filter does just that by darkening the sky and leaving the landscape alone, the result of which is a well-exposed image from top to bottom.

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A third filter that's beneficial for landscape photographers to have is a neutral density filter.

Neutral density filters, like the Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Ultra shown above, have a consistent level of light-filtering power throughout.

That means that with less light entering your camera's lens, you can use longer shutter speeds during the daytime to blur the movement of things like clouds and water for an ethereal effect, as seen below.

Without an ND filter, those longer shutter speeds would result in an overexposed mess.

So, as you can see, filters provide you with many benefits so that you can create more impactful and creative images.

Just be sure you buy the best filters, because the quality of the filter will determine the quality of the photo.

For my money, Formatt-Hitech is the way to go because of their commitment to the quality of materials they use and the process of manufacturing top-notch products.

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Look Behind You

I was in Grand Teton National Park a few years ago, photographing the Tetons set against quite an incredible sunset.

The mountains were perfectly silhouetted in front of the bright sky, and the sky's colors were being reflected on the surface of the Snake River.

Then I turned around...

Unbeknownst to me, as the sun dipped behind the mountains, they lit up a thunderstorm that had formed over the Wind River Mountains behind me.

The colors were absolutely incredible, particularly as they highlighted the long rain bands dipping down from the clouds.

The point is that the biggest show might not always be in front of you. Move around. Look for new perspectives from which to shoot. Take your time in composing your photos.

If you can do these things, the quality of your landscape images will only increase!

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Landscape Photography Composition Tips to Improve Your Photos Right Now

landscape photography composition tips

Of all the factors that go into taking better landscape photos, perhaps one of the easiest to improve is your approach to composition.

Sometimes, it's a simple matter of changing your perspective to get a much better shot. Other times getting closer to a landscape subject will do the trick. In most cases, it's an easy fix.

With that in mind, here are a few landscape photography composition tips that will help you elevate the quality of your photos.

Landscape Photography Composition Tip: Shoot Through Something

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By shooting through something and using it as a frame within the frame, you create a landscape photo with much more dimension.

That is, with the foreground frame out of focus and the subject sharply in focus, the viewer has a better understanding of the depth of the scene.

Plant life is the perfect feature to use as a frame within a frame in a landscape photo. That's because many plants have pleasing colors and textures that add more visual interest to the shot.

When using this landscape photography composition tip, remember that you don't want too much of the plant or other frame protruding too far into the image.

The key is to have enough of the frame within the frame showing to give the shot more depth, but without obscuring the primary subject.

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Use Reflections to Your Advantage

how to take better landscape photos

Where using a frame within a frame can help bring more dimension to your photos, incorporating reflections can help bring balance to your shots.

When you find an opportunity to photograph a reflection, break with convention and place the horizon in the middle of the frame.

Doing so violates the rule of thirds, but in this case it will help you create that balanced shot you're after.

With the top half of the photo comprised of the actual landscape and the bottom half comprised of its perfect reflection, the result can be a breathtaking example of symmetry from top to bottom.

Don't be afraid to experiment with the eye level of your reflection shots, either. Try dropping down low to see how that changes the composition!

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Use a Polarizing Filter

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Polarizing filters are, by far, one of the most important photography accessories you can buy.

That's because these versatile filters can help improve your photos in a variety of ways...

For starters, good polarizing filters like those from Formatt-Hitech offer anti-reflective multicoating that gives the photos you take improved color fidelity and contrast. In other words, your images will have more visual pop than if you were to take them without a filter.

hitech circular polarizer

Aside from that, these filters allow you to take photos that have improved contrast in the sky with brighter whites in the clouds and deeper blues in the atmosphere.

Additionally, circular polarizing filters help reduce glare off non-metallic surfaces like water, so when you're out shooting during the daytime, you can get crystal clear results without having to worry about bright and distracting glare off of lakes, rivers, streams, and so forth.

As if that's not enough, polarizing filters help reduce atmospheric haze, that way distant features like mountains are better defined.

All in all, polarizing filters are like a secret weapon to getting much-improved landscape photos. And Formatt-Hitech makes them easy to use, too, with precision-milled rings that make for easy attachment to lenses and easy operation, too.

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Shop Around for Shots

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It's easy to get sucked into the crowd of photographers that have all gathered at one spot to take a stab at photographing an iconic view.

And while there's nothing wrong with wanting a photo from that common area, you do yourself and your photos a disservice by not shopping around for shots.

That is, get off the beaten path (if possible, and safely!) and explore the area around you to see what other vantage points open up for photos of well-known areas (and lesser-known areas, too).

Not only does this help you develop your eye for composition, but it also gets you away from the throngs of photographers competing for space.

Additionally, you just don't know what other opportunities exist for taking amazing landscape photos if you don't try, right?

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How to Take Better Landscape Photos: Use a Tripod

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I'm a firm believer that it's not the gear that makes the photographer, but the knowledge, skills, and talent that do.

Having said that, there's no denying that having the right gear enables you to take much better shots.

For landscape photographers, there's certainly a lot of appeal in carrying as little gear as possible due to the long walks and hikes that are sometimes necessary to get to the locations you wish to photograph.

And while going lean and mean is certainly a great way to approach landscape photography, not having a tripod with you is a big no-no in my book.

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There's tons of reasons for this, too.

A tripod helps slow you down a little bit so that you have a few moments to survey the landscape, think about your composition, and set up the shot for success.

Additionally, a tripod like the Vanguard Alta Pro 2 263AGH shown above and below gives your camera the stability it needs to get sharp images, but without bogging you down with tons of weight.

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That's because this tripod weighs just 5.5 pounds and folds down to less than 27 inches.

You can easily lash a tripod that small to your camera backpack and walk for hours without feeling like you're going to collapse under a heavy load of gear.

What's more, this tripod is made of magnesium and aircraft aluminum, so not only is it ultra-light but it's also incredibly strong and durable.

You definitely want something that will last when you put it through its paces out in nature.

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And I know what you're thinking...tripods slow you down too much. What if you miss a shot?

Well, all I can say is that if you get the right tripod, you won't miss any shots.

This Vanguard model sets up in a matter of seconds so you can get your shots quickly.

There's tons of features to help you compose better photos, too - a bubble level for straight horizons, multiple leg lock positions to get low-angle shots, a 3-way fluid panhead for taking smooth video or panoramic photos, and a canopy suspension loop to act as ballast when the wind kicks up.

In other words, though developing your creative eye is absolutely critical for composing better landscape photos, having the right gear to help you along the way sure doesn't hurt!

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Landscape Photography Tip: One Thing That Will Improve Your Images in 3 Important Ways

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I know, I know…

You’re probably thinking that the title I used for this article is just clickbait and that there’s no possible way that a single tool can improve your photos in so many different ways.

I assure you, though, there really is a single tool that is that versatile and has such a marked impact on your images:

A circular polarizing filter.

A polarizing filter is an absolute must-have item for landscape photographers. In fact, I’d put it above having a tripod. It’s that important!

Why? Because good light is essential to landscape photography.

Yet for some reason, when I’m out shooting, I see people left and right without a polarizer.

What gives?!

I honestly think that perhaps people are just unaware of the benefits one gets from using a polarizer. With that in mind, let me sing its praises.

Polarizers Make Clouds Pop

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If you’ve ever taken a photo on a bright, sunny day with big, puffy clouds set against a deep blue sky, the chances are pretty good that the final image won’t be as impactful as the scene was when you first viewed it.

The sky might not appear to be as deep of a blue color, and the intense light of shooting during the middle of the day might blow out the clouds, making them little more than bright, white blobs.

Enter a polarizing filter.

A polarizer resolves this issue by adding much-needed definition to clouds such that they appear three-dimensional with various tones of white and gray.

What’s more, a polarizer enhances the blue color of the sky, creating a gorgeous, more lifelike contrast between the sky and the clouds that makes the clouds pop beautifully in the image.

These concepts can be seen in the image above. The sky is a deep, saturated blue which contrasts nicely with the clouds. Note the subtle definition of the clouds I spoke about above - it gives the photo tons of visual interest, all due to using a polarizer.

Bye Bye Glare

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If you frequent spots where water is present, a polarizer is an absolute must because it cuts down on glare off the surface of the water.

That means a couple of things.

First, as you can see in the image above, without the glare shimmering on the water’s surface, you can actually see into the water and get a glimpse of what’s below. In this case, the depth of the water also gives the image greater depth while the detail of the submerged rocks adds a nice textural element.

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Second, by cutting down on glare, a polarizer also boosts the saturation of a photo. Without bright spots of water reflecting light off of rocks, plants, and so forth, the colors seem more vibrant and deep.

You can see in the image above how the green tones of the rainforest come to life. Note how the plant life in the foreground is wet, yet the light isn’t reflecting off their surface, which garners the deeper, more saturated colors noted above.

Make Haze a Thing of the Past

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Sometimes when you’re out shooting a gorgeous landscape, you might find that there’s a bit of haze in the air from smog, fog, or a temperature inversion during the winter. Haze might even appear simply when you’re photographing a distant subject, as you can see in the image above.

The point is that, regardless of its cause, haze has a negative impact on landscape photos because it reduces the sharpness of the scene. Sometimes the haze can be so thick that you can’t even see the whole landscape to begin with.

But a polarizing filter can rescue you in this situation.

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Where haze helps increase light polarization, a polarizer will reduce polarization. The result is a sharper photo with improved resolution, as seen in the image above.

Note the enormous difference in these two images of Moraine Lake. The first has tons of haze that make it hard to see the full scope of the landscape. The colors are also muted with glare on the water.

The second image, however, has none of these problems. The colors are deep and vibrant, the glare off the water is non-existent, and there is no indication of atmospheric haze.

Don’t Go Without a Polarizer Any Longer

KENKO NYUMON C PL37MM web ST

As I’ve demonstrated above, a polarizer is a valuable addition to your kit, and one that you really shouldn’t go without for another day!

But, photography is an expensive endeavor, and shelling out hundreds of dollars for a filter might not be in the budget.

That doesn’t mean that you can’t snag a great polarizing filter nonetheless.

Kenko Nyumon filters are constructed of coated and polished optical glass, meaning you get clear, crisp results. These filters resist common environmental conditions - like smudges and accidental drops - and help protect your lens glass too.

Coming in a wide variety of sizes from 37mm up to 82mm, the Kenko Nyumon circular polarizing filter will work with all sorts of lenses from many different manufacturers.

Because it’s mounted in a SLIM ring, you don’t have to worry about vignetting on wide-angle lenses, either.

And the best part?

These filters offer excellent results without a giant price tag. That’s not a bad deal at all!

If you want to see an immediate, positive impact on your landscape photography, a polarizing filter is one of the most essential things you can add to your camera bag. Once you shoot with one, you’ll wonder what you were doing without a polarizer in the first place.



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Landscape Photography Tips From the Pros

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Getting to the point where you take amazing landscape photos will take a some time and practice, to be sure.

But if you're equipped with a few landscape photography tips from the pros, you'll get to that point much sooner.

The techniques outlined below might seem quite simple, but their impact on your photography is undeniable.

After all, these are secrets that professional photographers use!

Editor's Tip: Don't just rely on your camera and lenses to get the shot. Help your camera out by using high-quality lens filters.

Keep Your Landscape Photography Settings Simple

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Some professional landscape photographers shoot in full manual mode because it gives them the ultimate level of control over the camera's settings.

But unless you're a pro, learning how to take landscape photos often means simplifying the camera settings a little bit.

Fortunately, you can do that without sacrificing the quality of the shot.

Rather than shooting in full manual, try shooting in aperture priority mode (A or Av on your camera's dial)

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In aperture priority mode, you control the aperture and ISO while the camera selects an appropriate shutter speed.

Select an aperture setting of f/8 or f/11. Minimize the ISO setting (i.e., 100 or 200). These settings will work for most landscapes, so you can set them and forget them more often than not.

Not only that, but these settings will help you maximize the depth of field to ensure everything in the shot is in sharp focus.

Additionally, set your camera's metering mode to evaluative or matrix metering, which tells the camera to read the light values in every part of the shot.

This will help you get a well-exposed image from shadows to highlights.

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Use Filters to Help You Get Amazing Landscape Photos

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Years and years ago when I started out in photography, I never used filters. I didn't have any to begin with, but I also didn't understand just how valuable lens filters are for landscape photographers.

A perfect example is when you're shooting a landscape and the sky is super bright but the landscape is cast in shadow.

When that wide dynamic range occurs, cameras struggle to accommodate all the range of light values. The result (as I discovered over and over again when I was a beginner) is usually a photo that's well-exposed for the sky or well-exposed for the landscape, but not both.

That's where a graduated neutral density filter comes in.

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The Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Ultra Soft-Edge Graduated Neutral Density Filter shown above will be a Godsend to your landscape photography.

That's because graduated ND filters darken the sky without having any effect on the landscape. That's why the filter has that gradual change from dark to light.

Just pop one of these in a filter holder that's attached to the end of your lens, and you can say goodbye to those difficult dynamic range situations as described above.

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Better still, there's different densities of graduated ND filters, so you can use a 1-stop filter when the dynamic range isn't all that big and a 5-stop filter when the sky is really bright.

There are also soft-edge and hard-edge filters to accommodate different landscapes.

If you're photographing a landscape like the one above in which there's a definite horizon, a hard-edge grad is the way to go. But if there's trees protruding into the sky, an uneven mountaintop, or other elements interfering with the horizon, a soft-edge grad is the better choice.

The first time I used a graduated ND filter I was astonished at how much of an impact it had on my photos - and it was a cheap, crappy filter!

Just imagine what your photos will look like if you start using one of the best graduated NDs on the market today - the Firecrest Ultra!

Editor's Tip: Another must-have filter for landscape photographers is a polarizer. Learn all about their virtues here.

Professional Landscape Photography Tip: Compose With Balance in Mind

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Our eyes love to see things that are visually balanced - that's why symmetrical things often grab our attention.

In landscape photography, it's tough to get symmetrical shots, unless of course there's water involved to reflect the features of the landscape as shown above.

But you don't have to have a symmetrical composition to have a shot that's visually balanced...

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In the photo above, you can see how two very different elements help to balance out this image - the buildings on the left and the mountain on the right.

The mountain is clearly a much larger feature, but because the buildings are closer to the camera, they occupy about the same space in the shot.

What's more, the bright red color of the buildings is an attention-grabber, which furthers their ability to balance out the bulk and heft of the mountain on the right.

By using features like color and perceived size, you can achieve a photo with much better visual balance, even if one of the elements you're using is much smaller than the other.

Give this and the other tips outlined above a try, and see just how much your photos improve as a result!

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Landscape Photography Tricks You Should Be Using

landscape photography tricksPhoto by Marc Zimmer on Unsplash

Landscape photography is easy, right? Just point your camera at something pretty and you're good to go!

Wrong...

Creating epic landscape photos like the one above takes a lot of time, practice, and patience.

Having a few landscape photography tricks up your sleeve helps, too.

With that in mind, here are a few tried-and-true landscape photography tricks you should be using to get more impactful images.

Compose the Shot With a Focal Point in Mind

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One of the things that separates professional landscape photos from amateur landscape photos is the presence of a strong subject.

Professional images have something that anchors the shot and immediately catches the viewer's attention.

And this doesn't have to be a big landscape feature like a mountain, either.

Instead, a strong focal point can be a color, a bright area of light, a building (as shown above), or even a person (people work very well with landscapes!).

So, when composing your landscapes, think about what you can use as an anchor in the shot. More than that, think about where you'll place that anchor.

Bear in mind the rule of thirds to help you create something that's visually balanced, and try using tricks like leading lines to help make the focal point of the shot even more obvious.

If you do these things, you'll end up with an image that takes people on a journey rather than one that looks and feels empty.

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Use a Polarizing Filter

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I have to admit that I didn't start using filters of any kind for several years after I got my first camera.

I think that I was just intimidated by having yet another thing to account for in my workflow. I was having enough trouble learning camera settings at that point!

But to set aside filters as not being a crucial part of creating landscape photos is a huge mistake. That's especially true of a polarizing filter because it can do so much for your photos.

Consider the benefits of polarizing filters:

  • Reduces glare off non-metallic surfaces like water and wet foliage.
  • Boosts contrast in the sky, making the clouds brighter and whiter on a deeper blue backdrop.
  • Minimizes atmospheric haze so distant objects are crisper. 

So, as you can see, when you're shooting landscapes, learning how to use a circular polarizer can do a lot to help you get the shot as close to perfect in-camera as possible.

That means more time out in the field shooting and less time in front of your camera trying to correct things. That sounds like a deal to me!

Of course, not all filters are made alike, so be careful when you invest in one for your kit.

 

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Personally, I'm a big fan of Kenko polarizing filters because they offer a nice balance between excellent build quality and price.

Kenko is the largest filter company in Japan, and they have fine-tuned the process of making filters over many, many years.

 

Editor's Tip: Get Kenko’s latest updates and access to promos for discounted gear. Click here to sign up.

 

The result - particularly with their Puro Line of filters - is a tool that maximizes performance, protects your lens, reduced vignetting when shooting with a wide-angle lens, and has multiple coatings to prevent water, dust, and oils from damaging the filter surface.

Best of all, these filters are reasonably priced, so you can add one to your kit without feeling like you need to take out a loan.

It's a win-win!

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Give Viewers Something to See by Maximizing the Depth of Field

Typically, when shooting landscapes, you want to have a deep depth of field, meaning, have as much of the shot in focus as possible.

By having clear, sharp features from foreground to background, you're able to create an image that has a ton of dimension. Besides, it's the way we see landscapes with our own eyes!

The easiest way to get a large depth of field is to use a smaller aperture opening, like f/16, because the smaller the aperture opening, the greater the depth of field.

Of course, you don't have to use the smallest aperture to get great depth of field. In fact, because lenses are often sharpest in the f/8-f/11 range, choosing an aperture between those values will often get you the best results.

If you're not sure how to manipulate aperture, shooting in aperture priority mode is a great way to start taking more control over your camera.

For a comprehensive discussion of depth of field, have a look at the video above by Professional Photography Tips.

And there you have it - three tried-and-true landscape photography tricks that will help you improve the quality of your photos.

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Lens Filter Buying Guide

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With the calendar firmly into 2020, I figured it was time to unleash an updated lens filter buying guide.

There is a wide variety of filters you can have in your camera bag, both in terms of types and manufacturers.

But like camera lenses, lens filters are not all made alike - cheap filters can cause color casts, vignetting, and degrade the sharpness of an image.

In other words, why invest in a great lens if you're going to put a junk filter on the front of it?

Bear in mind that I'm using "cheap" as a reference to build quality, not to price. There are many excellent budget lens filters that will give you excellent results.

Without further ado, let's get to the best lens filters for 2020 - lens filter kits, circular polarizers, ND filters, and more!

Haida M10 Pro Filter Kit

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I recently got my hands on the Haida M10 Pro 100mm filter kit, and I have to say that I'm impressed.

I've used other Haida filter systems as well, and they are a great combination of features, quality, and price.

In this case, the kit has a 100mm filter holder that has a drop-in slot for a circular polarizer. This makes it quick and easy to add or remove the CPL as needed. As a landscape photographer, having a good circular polarizer is an absolute must!

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In this case, I particularly appreciate the gear on the side of the drop-in filter slot that allows me to rotate the polarizer with much greater ease.

Likewise, the filter hold rotates 360-degrees so I can position the filters with precision. The locking mechanism keeps everything in place, too.

In front of that are three slots for 100mm filters, so you can purchase solid ND filters, graduated ND filters, or reverse grads and add them to the holder for the specific effects you need.

The kit includes four adapter rings to accommodate popular lens sizes (67mm, 72mm, 77mm, and 82mm), a storage pouch, and four lens caps. Get more details in the video below by Ikan International:

With all these components included in the kit, this is a great starter filter kit for any photographer.

And with Haida's extensive line of 100mm filters, you can add the necessary filters to the kit as you go along and build a high-quality system that helps you improve the quality of your photos.

Price: $228.27 at Amazon

Learn more about the Haida M10 Pro Filter Kit

Kenko Nyumon Circular Polarizer

best budget friendly filtersPhoto by Gary Gray via iStock

If you ask me, there is no more important filter to buy than a circular polarizer.

That's because a polarizing filter can have a positive impact on your photos in a whole host of ways.

They cut down glare off of non-metallic surfaces like water and they also help boost the contrast in the sky for a deeper blue atmosphere and whiter clouds.

Additionally, a polarizing filter cuts down on atmospheric haze so distant elements in the shot appear to be crisper, as shown in the image above.

If you're after a budget-friendly polarizer, look no further than the Kenko Nyumon polarizer shown above.

This filter is crafted using optical-quality glass that's polished and coated to repel everything from water droplets to the oils from your skin.

On top of that, Kenko has smartly mounted it in a SLIM ring, that way there's less chance of vignetting occurring when using a wide-angle lens.

kenko 37mm filter

There's a wide range of sizes available as well, so virtually any lens you have, Kenko likely has a polarizer to fit.

And starting at less than $15.00, these things are easy on your bank account too!

This is a prime example of how budget lens filters can strike a balance between price and performance.

Price: Starting at $43.00 at Kenko Imaging USA

Learn more about the Kenko Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter

 

Editor's Tip: Get Kenko’s latest updates and access to promos for discounted gear. Click here to sign up.

 

PolarPro Summit Filter Kit

top filters 2020 polarpro

Earlier, I mentioned that not all filters are made alike.

The Summit filter kit by PolarPro is an excellent example of that sentiment.

To begin, this system has an integrated circular polarizer. 

As you can see above, the polarizer slides into the filter holder to create a light-sealed system. The CPL is both low-low profile (to prevent vignetting) and it installs and removes easily.

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What's more, the Summit system has tool-free mounting options, a tool-less rail mount, and a snap-on hood attachment that make using this system a breeze. This is a huge benefit for those instances in which the light is changing quickly and you need to adapt your setup sooner rather than later.

PolarPro has made the Summit system super lightweight, too, so you don't have to carry a big, heavy, bulky set of filters around with you as you seek the next great photo opportunity.

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It helps that each filter has an aluminum frame, as that reduces fingerprints on the filter glass while also maximizing protection for the filter.

And since these filters are available in 67mm, 72mm, 77mm, 82mm, and 95mm, you can find the right size for your specific needs.

If you're a landscape photographer and you don't have a good set of filters, the PolarPro Summit system is an excellent option for you.

Price: $599.99 at PolarPro

Learn more about the PolarPro Summit Filter System

Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Ultra ND Filter

top lens filters 2020 hitech

A solid ND filter allows you to slow down the shutter speed or open up the aperture when shooting in bright conditions without overexposing the image.

Photos with blurred motion wouldn't be possible when shooting in broad daylight, because all that light from the long shutter speed would result in a completely blown out photo.

ND filters come in all kinds of strengths, with darker ND filters blocking out more light, thus allowing you to get longer exposures or use larger apertures.

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Formatt-Hitech's Firecrest Ultra ND filters are a good choice because they offer excellent features without busting your budget.

These filters are bonded, which helps protect the filter's coating from damage. This means that you get a filter that helps you achieve your photographic goals while also giving you longer-lasting and durable performance over the long-term.

Formatt-Hitech also uses a lap and polish technique when manufacturing the Firecrest Ultra ND filters, which results in glass that offers hyper-neutral performance. There is no color casting and you get superb sharpness, minimal aberrations, and enhanced clarity, too.

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These filters are available as 100mm x 100mm squares and come in a wide range of popular densities from 1 to 10 stops.

If you're in need of an ultra-dark filter, though, Formatt-Hitech has Firecrest Ultra NDs that go from 13 stops up to a whopping 24 stops!

It's that kind of variety that enables you to select the precise ND filters you need to create beautiful long exposure images, even on the brightest of days.

Price: Starting at $179.00 at Formatt-Hitech

Singh-Ray Variable ND Filter

best lens filters for 2020 singh ray

Years ago, variable ND filters didn't have a good reputation. They just didn't work well and left you with images that had artifacts that ruined your images.

But today's variable ND filters are a new breed, and options like this one from Singh-Ray are among the best.

A variable ND filter is one of the best filters for landscape photography.

In a single filter, you have the capability of blocking anywhere from two to eight stops of light with the turn of the filter in its housing.

If you need to build a run and gun setup, having a single variable ND filter could be advantageous, rather than carrying multiple ND filters to achieve the same feat.

singh rayImage Credit: Marco Crupi

As explained earlier, an ND filter is a must-have if you want to introduce motion effects - like blurry water or clouds - when photographing during the daytime.

With this filter, all you have to do is turn the filter to control how much light passes through the lens. And since it's a Singh-Ray, you can depend on quality construction that retains the color fidelity of the scene (and the sharpness, too).

Variable ND filters aren't just for still photography, though - you can utilize them when shooting video as well!

Price: $340.00 at Amazon

Learn more about the Singh-Ray Variable ND filter

Breakthrough Photography X4 Circular Polarizer

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Breakthrough Photography's X4 circular polarizer is a top choice of many photographers thanks to its excellent performance and superb build quality.

The durable design is built to withstand the rough-and-tumble world of landscape photography. You can use it in high winds, in the presence of saltwater or dust, and other arduous environmental conditions and not worry that it will fail.

Additionally, these filters are guaranteed to maintain their optical clarity and color neutrality for 25 years thanks to its weather-sealed design.

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This polarizing filter is one of our best filters for 2020 because of its nanocoating. Breakthrough Photography utilizes a bespoke nanotec coating that beads water and other elements off the glass. This means a cleaner filter for improved results while minimizing smearing, fingerprints, and so forth.

Paired with the SCHOTT Superwhite B270 optical glass, you get excellent light transmission, particularly in the ultraviolet, visible, and infrared spectrums.

Add to that a state-of-the-art multi-resistant coating that reduces reflections and improves contrast, and you have a recipe for a polarizer you can get a lot of mileage out of (and great results, too).

Price: Starting at $129.00 at Adorama

Lee Hard-Edge Graduated ND Filter

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Our Lens Filter Buying Guide 2020 wouldn't be complete without a hard-edge graduated ND filter.

This one, by Lee, comes in various sizes to accommodate different setups, including 75mm x 90mm, 100mm x 150mm, and 150mm x 170mm. They're also available in various strengths, from 1-stop to 4-stops.

These hard-edge grads are perfect for landscape situations in which there is a definite horizon.

The quick transition from darkened to undarkened areas allows you to match up the filter with the horizon and get the desired filter effects for the sky while leaving the landscape below it untouched.

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What sets this filter apart from those by other manufacturers is that it is hand-made with a gradual build-up of the ND gradation.

The gradation on the filter is created by dipping the filter into baths of dye. As a result of this hand-made process, you get hyper-accurate results that give you the ultimate in creative control.

With a hard-edge grad or two in your bag, you'll be better equipped to create beautiful landscape images that are well-exposed throughout.

Between the quality build and reasonable prices, you can see why this is among the best lens filters for 2020!

Price: Starting at $113.00 at Adorama

Learn more about Lee Hard-Edge Graduated ND Filters

Argraph Marumi M100 Filter System

marumi m100 holder

Marumi’s Magnetic M100 Filter Holder and their line of magnetic filters are just what the doctor ordered for photographers that are sick of sliding filters in and out of their holders.

The M100 filter holder sports a slim 10mm design with strong magnetic attachments that hold the filter in place. The foam gaskets on the filter holder ensure that there are no light leaks to ruin your photos.

marumi circular polarizer

If using a circular polarizer, it rotates independently in the filter holder and features water and oil-repellent coatings on both sides that minimizes clean up.

The filter also has anti-static-anti-scratch, and anti-reflection properties that ensure you have the ideal shooting experience.

marumi soft ND

The other magnetic filters in Marumi’s lineup have the same features, including their graduated ND filters and solid ND Filters.

The graduated ND filters include hard-edge, soft-edge (as shown above), and reverse grads for photographing landscapes with a definite horizon, a variable horizon, and at sunrise and sunset, respectively.

marumi solid nd

Of course, there are also many different solid ND filters available from 2-stops all the way up to 15-stops.

Like the other Marumi filters mentioned above, these ND filters are made of durable Schott 5270 glass that offers high-definition results.

When photographing landscapes, the quality of light can change from one second to the next. That’s why this magnetic system is so compelling - by reducing the time spent swapping out filters, you can spend more time photographing the beauty before you!

Price: $149.99 for the M100 Filter Holder, $139.95 for the circular polarizer, and $199.95 for solid ND filters.

Cokin P-Series Soft-Edge Graduated ND Filter

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Another popular filter for landscape photographers is a soft-edge grad, like this one by Cokin.

A soft-edge grad is ideally suited for use when there is not a definite horizon.

Unlike the hard-edge grad we discussed above, this one has a much more gradual transition from the filtered to non-filtered areas.

This allows for use in situations in which there are undulations in the horizon line, and when buildings, trees, and other objects that extend above the horizon.

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What makes this Cokin soft-edge grad so great is its price - it's one of the best budget lens filters we've yet to find at less than $28.

But don't let that cheap price fool you - this is a well-built filter that performs well (as shown by the before and after photos above), which is why it has 4.5 out of 5 stars on Adorama!

It's specifically designed for use with Cokin's excellent P-series filter holder and features hyper-neutral results that you would expect from a high-quality filter.

This filter comes as a 3-stop, which is an ideal strength for many landscape photography situations in which the bright sky needs to be brought down a little.

Price: $27.61 at Adorama

Learn more about the Cokin P-Series Soft-Edge Graduated ND Filter

Haida NanoPro MC Reverse ND Grad

haida reverse nd grad

Last but not least, a great filter to have in your camera bag is a reverse ND grad, like this one by Haida.

A reverse ND grad is specifically designed for sunrise and sunset photos when the brightest part of the sky is along the horizon.

As you can see, the darkest part of the filter is in the middle, and it gradually gets lighter as you go toward the top (with no filtration on the bottom). This means you can manage the brightness of the sky along the horizon without impacting the darker areas of the sky above and the darker landscape below.

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As you'd expect from Haida, this filter is well made without a huge price tag.

You get a high-quality, multi-layered filter that helps repel dirt and smudges. These filters are also extremely scratch-resistant, which is exactly what you want for your landscape photography outings.

These filters offer excellent sharpness, zero color casting, and they reduce reflections as well.

The high-grade optical glass is durable, too.

Price: Starting at $90.00 at Adorama 

 

 



We Recommend


Long Exposure Photography Tips You Don't Want to Miss

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One look at a long exposure landscape photo like the one above, and I'm sure you're salivating at the thought of creating something so beautiful.

I know I am!

Long exposure photography is one genre I need to spend more time practicing.

I've dabbled here and there, but I wouldn't consider myself a long exposure pro by any means.

However, I've learned a lot about taking high-quality long exposure photos.

I think what I've learned will be of value to other photographers like you that want to make it a more important aspect of your photography undertakings.

With that in mind, here are a few essential tips I've learned along the way as I've practiced, made tons of mistakes, and even managed to get a few good long exposures too! You also need to take care of the exposure triangle and the right accessories for photography, while going for good exposure shots.

A Quick Refresher

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If you've experimented with long exposure photography, you probably have at least a working knowledge of how neutral density filters work.

But for the sake of us all being on the same page, here's a quick refresher about neutral density filters.

First, a neutral density filter should filter out light in a way that's neutral - thus the name.

That is, an ND filter shouldn't have a color cast that impacts the colors of the photo you create.

Secondly, for every stop of strength, an ND filter reduces the amount of light that hits your camera's sensor by a factor of two.

That means that if you use an ND filter that offers 1-stop of blocking power, it's an ND 2 filter (1x2 = ND 2). A 2-stop ND reduces light by a factor of four (2x2 = ND 4). You get the point...

ND filters on the low end of the scale like those mentioned above have a minimal effect on light blockage.

However, when you get into the upper end of the ND filter scale - like 10-stop, 13-stop, and 16-stop filters, you're talking about an incredible level of light blockage.

For example, a 10-stop ND filter reduces the light hitting your sensor by a factor of 1,024 times. That means to compensate, you have to use a shutter speed that's 1000 times slower that it would be if there was no filter being used.

With such incredibly slow shutter speeds, using super dark ND filters requires some finesse.

Take Control of Focus

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When you use a 10-stop filter or darker, there is so little light entering your lens that the autofocus function will not work.

That means you have to take control of focusing the shot yourself.

But if you've never manually focused an image, it's not as scary as you might think.

All you do is frame up the shot and get your composition just how you like it - without the ND filter in place.

Then switch your lens to manual focus and acquire the focus point. Use Live View to zoom in on that point to ensure you've got the focus down pat.

Next, attach your ND filter, being careful not to move the camera or inadvertently hit the lens.

All that's left is to take the shot, which you can do without your camera's autofocus system trying (and likely failing) to acquire the focus point.

Watch Out for Hot Pixels

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When you take a long exposure, noise can become a problem even if you shoot with a low ISO like 200 or 400.

Rather than typical noise being introduced, noise can show up as hot pixels.

The problem with hot pixels (other than not looking good) is that you often can't see them when you look at the image you've just taken on your camera's LCD.

That means that you might think you have a great shot on your hands, only to find upon inspection on your computer at home that there are hot pixels all over the place ruining your perfect shot.

Much like the autofocus issue above is easily corrected, so too is the hot pixel problem.

The best way to address hot pixels is to take your long exposure photo as normal, then take a second, identical photo with the exact same exposure settings, only this time with the lens cap on.

What this will do is give you an image that is nothing but black, apart from the hot pixels.

By bringing that all-black image into post-processing with your actual long exposure, you can simply subtract those hot pixels in post-processing. See how to do that in the video above by Tom Migot Photographie.

The Conditions Matter

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Unlike traditional landscape photography where you can create a beautiful image without anything in the frame to indicate movement, the whole point of a long exposure is to have details in the shot that show the passage of time.

This can be a number of things, from clouds to a river to the headlights or taillights of a passing car.

For most of us, the easiest movement to incorporate into a long exposure photo is passing clouds.

Of course, if the clouds are moving, there might also be wind at ground level.

Wind is certainly your friend when it comes to helping add movement to the shot. But wind is your enemy when it comes to that shot being tack-sharp.

For that reason, when shooting long exposure landscape photos, you can't just mount your camera to a tripod and call it good.

What you need is a solid, sturdy tripod with options that allow you to improve its stability.

A center column hook allows you to hang something heavy - your camera bag, for example - to weigh it down.

Some tripods have heavy-duty rubber feet with retractable spikes that help plant it in the ground too.

Even small things like removing your camera strap and using Velcro or gaffer's tape to secure any cords will help minimize the effect that the wind has on your camera.

Your Filters Matter Too

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As noted earlier, some ND filters leave a color cast on your images that requires some fixing in post-processing.

Others, like those included in the Long Exposure Filter Kit #2, Joel Tjintjelaar Signature Edition by Formatt-Hitech, are so precisely built that they produce ultra-neutral results that don't require any color cast correction.

In fact, each of the three Firecrest filters included in this kit - a 10-stop, a 13-stop, and a 16-stop - is manufactured using cutting-edge technology to ensure the highest-quality results.

The filters have a rare earth metallic coating that's applied to the glass using an electrolytic process. That means that Formatt-Hitech's scientists have unparalleled control over modifying the frequencies of light that pass through the filter.

These filters reduce all spectrums of light, including those in the visible spectrum, as well as ultraviolet, near-infrared, and infrared light. 

So, what all that technical jargon means is that by using well-built filters, you give yourself a much better chance of getting the high-quality long exposure images you seek.

In that regard, the filters you use are a lot like the lenses you use - the better the lens, the better the image quality. By the same token, the better the filters, the better the results you get when creating long exposures.

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What's more, by getting an ND filter package like the Long Exposure Filter Kit #2, you get all sorts of helpful add-ons that make better photos more likely.

That includes a long exposure how-to booklet by Joel Tjintjelaar, a conversion chart to more easily calculate your exposure times, and three filters, each of which is suited to a different type of image.

You can use a 10-stop filter for general purpose long exposure images and the 13-stop filter for exposures that last 2-3 minutes, which is perfect for scenes in which the movement of water or clouds is relatively fast.

In situations in which you really need to slow things down, a 16-stop filter allows you to extend the exposure to well beyond 5 minutes for surreal, dreamy images like the one above.

Long exposure photography requires a lot of a photographer. You have to take control of focusing and watch out for hot pixels. You need the right conditions to get the best effect as well.

But you also need the right gear - a good tripod and filters that allow you to get the effects you want without the side effects that cheap filters often come with.

If you want to step up your long exposure game, follow these easy guidelines and pick up a set of ND filters from Format-Hitech. The results will be well worth it!



We Recommend


Must-Have Tips for Landscape Photography With a Smartphone

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Ten years ago, I don't think any of us would have dreamt that today we'd be talking about taking high-quality landscape photos with our phones.

But that's the reality, and if you ask me, I think it's pretty awesome!

Sure, my iPhone 7 isn't going to be as useful to me for professional shoots as my Nikon D810, but in many situations, my iPhone will do the trick.

That doesn't mean that there aren't a few things that can be done to improve those smartphone photos, though.

Get a Lens

kenkoclipon

Camera lenses in smartphones have come a long, long way, especially in the last five years or so as people have demanded that their phones be good cameras, too.

But even as native camera lenses have improved, they still aren't as useful and they don't have the variety of angles of view as add-on lenses have.

That's why I picked up the clip-on lens you see above and below.

kenkophonetablet

This little guy is made by Kenko from high-quality, fine-processed glass that results in clear, sharp landscape photos. There's no image degradation. No weird colors or shadows.

That's because this lens clips directly onto your phone's lens, creating a tight seal that helps minimize light leaks. And since it's a clip-on, you don't have to worry about buying attachments, and you can use it on various phones and tablets, too.

Beyond that, I appreciate the fact that Kenko gives you two lenses in one.

On the one hand, you can use the 0.65x wide-angle lens to capture wide vistas and shots of grand scenes with a 120-degree field of view.

Then you can unscrew the wide-angle element and use the macro element to get close-up shots of flowers, insects, and other smaller features you find in the landscape.

kenkokickstand

This Kenko lens even works as a kickstand, so if you find an opportunity to take a selfie or a group portrait while you're out photographing the beauty of nature, this lens will help you do that, too.

It even comes with lens caps, a cleaning cloth, chain clip, and a carrying pouch, so you're all set to start shooting right from the get go.

I love my iPhone, and I've taken some great photos with it. But with my Kenko lens, I've taken even better photos, which is why I highly recommend upgrading your smartphone lens with one of these bad boys!

Learn More:

Get Low to Incorporate Foreground Elements

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Sometimes, when confronted with a beautiful landscape, it's hard not to focus so much on the beauty of what's beyond your reach.

For example, the mountains in the shot above are incredibly eye-catching and are certainly worthy of commanding our attention.

But by neglecting elements in the scene that are closer to you, namely, in the foreground, you miss an opportunity to create a more compelling shot.

Think about it like this - the foreground is like a welcome mat to your image. It should help grab the viewer's attention and invite them into the shot, helping move their eye upward and deeper into the scene.

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You can see this concept in action in the image above.

By taking a lower shooting position, this photographer was able to incorporate the rocks, flowers, and other foreground elements.

Doing so creates an image that has more visual appeal, for one, and secondly, the image has much more varied subject matter to hold our interest.

There's textures, shapes, and patterns, colors, and elements that are sharply in focus and others that are blurry.

That makes this image one that has a greater feeling of dimension, and if you ask me, one that's also more successful than the previous shot.

Learn More:

Slow Things Down

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We're all in such a hurry these days that we can't seem to slow things down for a moment and enjoy what's in front of us.

When it comes to photography, I think mobile phones haven't helped this problem, but instead exacerbate it.

It's just too easy to pull our phones out of our pockets, snap a photo, and move on.

But taking that sort of fast approach to landscape photography isn't going to do your images any favors.

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By taking your time - even just a few seconds longer - you can more effectively frame the shot, get the horizon straight, check the corners for distracting elements, and ensure that you've placed the subject well within the image.

What's more, taking a little more time allows you to experiment with different angles and perspectives to create landscape photos that are more creative and unique.

Of course, slowing things down also allows you to actually enjoy the landscape before you rather than rushing from one spot to the next.

So, with that in mind, challenge yourself to take one minute for each shot you take. Get your phone out, look for different ways to portray the scene, find foreground interest to include, and use an add-on lens to help you capture the scene more effectively.

These are quick and simple tips, but they can have a tremendous impact on the quality of the landscape photos you take!

Learn More:



We Recommend


Nature Photography Tips for Beginners

nature photography tips for beginnersPhoto by Tim Swaan on Unsplash

When you’re first starting off in your landscape photography journey, it can be overwhelming. Oftentimes, it may feel like the place you live isn’t beautiful enough for you to be one of the truly great landscape photographers.

But, believe it or not, nature photography is much more than living somewhere gorgeous...

Here are some nature photography tips to teach you how to make the most of the nature that’s accessible to you. 

Table of Contents

It’s All About the Camera

photography tips for beginnersPhoto by martin-dm via iStock

I’m not saying you can’t take nature photographs with your iPhone, but I am saying they won’t be as good as they could be with even a lower end, cheap DSLR or mirrorless camera. 

DSLRs for beginner landscape photography allow new photographers to create better quality images and allow you to have complete creative control over your photos in post-production.

That's because even low-end DSLRs and mirrorless cameras have manual controls and the ability to shoot in RAW - manual controls allow you to make decisions about what the camera does (not the camera making those decisions) and RAW format gives you the most data with which to work in post-processing.

Plus, just one of many landscape photography secrets is that you can buy a used DSLR for pennies on the dollar. This type of camera will allow you to capture every waterfall, forest, or prairie in much greater detail than your phone.

But, Don’t Forget About Your Filters, Tripods and Lenses

Once you’re set up with a good DSLR, you can begin to play around with new equipment. A lot of outdoor photography tips for beginners completely forget to mention the essential equipment outside of a camera.

The DSLR you just bought comes with something called a kit lens - it’s basically the bare minimum lens that all camera manufacturers send out in their camera kits. These types of lenses don’t add much value to your DSLR, but they do allow you to begin shooting immediately.

If, however, you have the extra money, you should purchase one phenomenal lens to accompany your shiny new camera. Since you’re interested in landscape photography, you may want to invest in a wide-angle lens like a 24mm prime or perhaps something like a 12-24mm zoom. This enables you to capture vast expanses of space in one photo.

Learn more about what landscape lenses you should consider buying in the video above by Mark Denney.

beginner landscape photographyPhoto by DieterMeyrl via iStock

You’ll also need to invest in a tripod. I like to keep it simple outside of my camera and lenses, especially if you’re just beginning. So, a run-of-the-mill DSLR tripod will cost you around $20 on Amazon. 

Now, a cheap tripod is like a cheap lens in that it's great to learn with when you're just starting out. But as your skills improve, a better tripod will be in order.

Tripods allow you to take long exposure shots of landscapes, sure, but they also allow you to steady your shot enough to create extremely sharp details. These details will inevitably be blown up when you get home and get them onto your computer and nothing is more frustrating than figuring out your whole day of shooting was a waste because of your shaky hand.

Nature photography is one of the only types of photography where, in many cases, you can have as much time as you need to set up a shot, so use that time wisely and bring a tripod with you.

outdoor photography tipsPhoto by Eloi_Omella via iStock

Finally, purchase a variable ND filter. A variable ND filter screws onto the end of your lens, just like a circular polarizer, and it controls how much light is getting into your camera.

By diminishing the amount of light entering the camera, a variable ND filter allows you to slow down the shutter speed and capture images like the one above, in which the water is gorgeously blurred.

Plus, when you invest in a variable ND filter you’re getting a better deal than if you bought a fixed ND filter.

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Where fixed ND filters each only allow so much light into your camera, a variable ND filter like Kenko’s NDX variable ND filter allow you to twist the filter to get the perfect degree of light. In that regard, a variable ND filter is like having a whole ND filter kit in your camera bag without the bulk and expense!

As you can see above, the same filter produces widely varying degrees of filtering power.

If you're completely unfamiliar with variable ND filters, check out this article. In it, I expound on why filters like Kenko's NDX variable ND filter are so valuable for nature photography.

 

Editor's Tip: Get Kenko’s latest updates and access to promos for discounted gear. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP.

 

Nature Photography Tips Are Useless If You’re Shooting JPEG

nature photography tipsPhoto by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: stop shooting JPEG images. If you’ve never read any outdoor photography tips, then you might use the JPEG setting on your DSLR because it’s what many cameras default to in the beginning. 

But, you should only be shooting RAW images and saving them as JPEGs after post-production.

Why? Because RAW images preserve way more information than JPEGs. JPEGs are compressed versions of your original photo, while RAW images are the full image with virtually all the detail captured by the camera's sensor. 

If you’re hoping on editing your photos at all to correct white balance or enhance color, shoot in RAW!

Learn More:

Buy a Remote

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Okay, I know I’ve already told you to buy a lot of expensive equipment. But this next item is super cheap.

Remotes can be found for virtually nothing - we’re talking $8 for a basic one on Amazon,and they also aid in long exposure shots.

When you’re trying to take a photo, you always move your camera at least a little bit, even when you very gently press the shutter button to begin the exposure. Shutter releases allow you to take a photo without touching your camera so you don’t risk a blurred image. 

Plus, they’re a lot of fun to play around with, especially when trying to take selfies that don’t totally suck. One of my photographer friends lets her toddler control the shutter release while they’re taking family photos and finds it’s a great way to get candid shots.

Keep Your Manual Exposure 101 Tips in Mind

manual exposure 1Photo by Alex Chernenko on Unsplash

When you're just learning the ropes, shooting in full auto mode is fine.

But as you learn and grow as a photographer, do not shoot in automatic. You’ll never learn everything your new camera can do and all of the wonderful ways it can capture the world around you if you don’t learn about it.

Shutter speed, like I talked about before, is just how fast the shutter opens and closes. Obviously the longer the shutter speed, the more light that enters the camera and the shorter the shutter speed, the less light enters the camera. Therefore, shutter speed controls the duration of light as well as how the camera captures movement - is that movement blurred (like below) or frozen?

manual exposure 2Photo by DieterMeyrl via iStock

The ISO level tells you how sensitive your camera is to light in your current surroundings. The higher the ISO value, the more sensitive the camera becomes to light. ISO is also responsible for how much digital noise is in the image. The higher the ISO, the more digital noise (which looks like graininess) there will be in the shot.

The aperture controls the amount of light that reaches your camera. Aperture is measured in f-stops, where larger numbers (i.e., f/22) represent a very small aperture opening and smaller numbers (i.e., f/1.4) represent a very large aperture opening. The smaller the aperture opening, the greater the depth of field, or how much of the scene is in focus.

You can choose where you want each of these levels in order to capture the perfect photo when you shoot in manual mode.

Though manual mode might sound scary, it truly isn't! It just takes time and practice to learn the ropes and feel comfortable using it.

Never Stop Exploring

I think this advice is as good for a novice landscape photographer as it is for a pro. The chances of burnout in photography are high, particularly with landscape photography because it is so expensive to travel and explore new places.

When I say never stop exploring, I don’t mean you need to constantly be on the road, or in a new country, but I do mean you need to adopt a childlike wonder. You need to ask yourself what you’re not seeing in your own backyard. You need to get out of your comfort zone because this is where the most growth is going to happen to you.

Never stop trying to get the best shot of your life because chances are you haven’t yet captured it!

Get inspired to explore more in the video above by Thomas Heaton.

Learn More:



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ND Filter Buying Guide: Which One is Best for You?

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Let's face it...

There's a ton of neutral density filters out there.

And I'm not just talking about filters from different manufacturers, either.

There's all sorts of ND filters with varying strengths that give you much more power to create epic photos.

The question is, which ND filter is best suited for what task?

That's where this guide comes in.

Let's have a look at three popular ND filters - a 3-stop, a 6-stop, and a 10-stop - and what you can do with each.

3-Stop ND Filters

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Best for: Portraits, Weddings, and Sunsets

ND filters are available in a variety of strengths, from just 1-stop to well beyond 10-stops.

That means that a 3-stop ND filter is on the lower end of the light-stopping spectrum.

A 3-stop ND filter has wide applicability because of this...

You can use one for outdoor portraits in which you want to open the aperture nice and wide to get a shallow depth of field.

You can also use it for wedding photography when you want to keep the ISO as low as possible to get nicely saturated, sharp photos.

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Yet another application is for landscape photography and shooting sunsets.

A 3-stop ND filter can actually get you better results at sunset because the exposure time is half of that you'd have with a 6-stop filter.

By cutting the exposure time in half, you can minimize noise from the sensor, especially in areas of shadow in the scene.

Of course, you can always use a 3-stop ND to mimic a 6-stop ND, too.

For example, if with a 6-stop ND at ISO 100 you have an exposure time of four minutes, you can use a 3-stop ND at ISO 50 to get roughly the same exposure time.

That means that the 3-stop filter is a versatile addition to your collection of lenses, not just because of the wide range of subject matter you can photograph, but because you can manipulate its performance to mimic a stronger filter as well.

6-Stop ND Filters

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Best for: Landscapes

Hands down, if you're a landscape photography enthusiast, a 6-stop ND filter is the one for you. In fact, if you buy only one ND filter and you primarily shoot landscapes, get one of these!

A 6-stop ND filter gives you the capability of getting gorgeous long exposures of moving water, passing clouds, and sunrises and sunsets.

With exposures in the two-minute to four-minute range, a 6-stop ND filter is ideal for situations in which you're shooting with a low ISO and a small aperture.

For example, if you're in the mountains at sunset and want to capture foreground interest in addition to the detail in the sky, you can set your aperture to f/16 or so, put the ISO at 100, frame the shot, add your 6-stop filter, and get a gorgeous capture of the scene before you.

2mm firecrest filters 6stop

And, as was mentioned earlier with the 3-stop filter, you can always halve your ISO to double the exposure time you can get with your 6-stop filter. Again, versatility is key!

You can also stack a 3-stop filter on top of a 6-stop filter to get 9 full stops of power. That will get you into the realm of shooting long exposures even on bright, sunny days.

But it would be a misnomer to say that a 6-stop ND filter is only for landscapes...

Hit the streets in the city with your 6-stop ND, and you can get exposures long enough to eliminate people from the shot while showing off the vibrant lights of the city as cars pass by and the clouds pass by overhead.

10-Stop ND Filters

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Best for: Daytime long exposures

If your passion is daytime long exposures, like capturing urban environments, creating black and white images, or making abstract images, a 10-stop ND filter is for you.

A 10-stop ND filter can get you double the exposure time of a 6-stop, making it ideal for highly dramatic scenes like the one seen above.

For example, if you shoot at f/11 and ISO 100 with a 6-stop ND, you'll have an exposure time of around two minutes to four minutes.

However, with the same exposure settings and a 10-stop ND, you're looking at exposure times beyond eight minutes.

The effect of a 10-stop ND is especially useful during broad daylight when the sun's rays are overhead (or relatively close to overhead) and the light is flat.

For this reason, a 10-stop ND filter is a poor choice for sunrise and sunset shots, thus the reasoning for using a 3-stop or 6-stop ND filters for that purpose.

Other Factors to Consider

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The subject matter you photograph isn't the only factor when choosing an ND filter.

Also think about your gear.

If your camera's minimum ISO value is 100 and you're a wedding or portrait photographer, get a 6-stop ND for more light-stopping power.

However, if your camera has a minimum ISO of 50, get a 3-stop ND.

Something else to think about is how versatile you need your setup to be.

Firecrest ND Filter Kit 3

For example, if you mostly shoot landscapes, a 6-stop ND is the best choice.

But let's assume that you occasionally want to shoot a daytime long exposure, too.

Rather than investing in a 10-stop ND filter, you might opt instead to get a 3-stop filter that you can stack on top of the 6-stop filter for virtually the same effect as a single 10-stop ND.

Of course, there are other filter options too, ranging from 1-stop to 10-stops, so you can mix and match as you see fit.

There's even ND filter kits that include three ND filters of varying strengths to give you greater versatility.

ND filters have a reputation for being a landscape photographer's best friend, and with good reason.

But as I've explained here, they're also great for portraits, weddings, and exploring the urban jungle.



We Recommend


New Year's Resolutions for Photographers

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It'll be 2018 soon, and that means we'll have a whole new year to improve our photography.

If you're like me, you look at the new year as an opportunity to further develop the skills you already have while also expanding your horizons.

That's what this post is all about...

If you want to step up your game in 2018, here's a few ideas for New Year's resolutions for photographers.

Shoot More

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No one has ever said, "Gee, I spend too much time taking photos."

The more photos you take, the better the photographer you'll be.

That's because you'll have a chance to work with more subjects, in a greater variety of conditions, and potentially with more varied gear as well.

In 2018, stretch your boundaries. If you usually shoot landscapes, try portraiture. If you like wildlife photography, try macro.

You can even set a goal to take at least a photo a day for the entire year, or if that's a little too much commitment, try doing a weekly challenge in which you take photos every day that fits into a theme.

Whatever you do, just commit yourself to getting behind the lens more often.

They don't say "practice makes perfect" for nothing!

Shoot More Comfortably, Too

If you're still clinging to the camera strap that came with your camera, you're doing it all wrong.

Those cheap, flimsy straps offer nothing in the way of comfort, nor do they help with your workflow, either.

When I first started in photography, I don't know how many times I got that damn strap caught on something as I was walking around.

But, now, that's not a worry because I use the Spider Holster SpiderLight.

The SpiderLight puts my Sony a6300 right on my hip, where it's both out of the way, yet easily accessible.

I shoot a lot of landscapes, so it's nice to be able to walk around with my hands free in case a rock or a tree root jumps up and tries to trip me.

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I also like the fact that the SpiderLight keeps my camera safe and secure. Even if I do stumble on a trail, my camera won't go anywhere.

But don't think that the SpiderLight is just for landscape photographers...

I use it when I'm taking portraits of my family, when I'm in the city for some fun street shoots, and even when I'm traveling.

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I use my holster with the SpiderLight Hand Strap, too, that way when I'm taking shots, I have a good, solid grip on my camera and a strap to act as a failsafe.

Just like the SpiderLight Holster, the Hand Strap is designed to stay out of your way.

The unique shape makes it easy to slide your hand in and out, and it puts your hand in the ideal shooting position so you can reach all the needed buttons and dials on your camera.

Together, the SpiderLight Holster and Hand Strap have helped me transform my workflow, and be way more comfortable as I work, too.

Learn More:

Get More Feedback

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When I say "get more feedback," I don't mean ask your Instagram followers to tell you what they think...

Instead, I mean to get more critical feedback from other photographers.

That might require you to join a photography site and upload your images to galleries or joining a photography club in your local area.

It might also mean asking photographers you respect for some feedback or finding a mentor to help you develop your skills.

However you go about it, getting constructive feedback on your work will only help you grow as a photographer, and by the end of the new year, you'll see much-improved results.

Get a New Lens

A great way to challenge yourself in the new year is to learn how to shoot with a different lens.

The things you can do with your kit lens, for example, are vastly different than the things you can do with a 50mm f/1.8 or a 200mm f/4-5.6.

LF Banner Buy

By outfitting yourself with a new lens, you can develop more improved compositional skills, develop your creative eye even further, shoot in more varied lighting conditions, and take photos of more varied subjects.

And don't think that you have to spend a lot of money to get a great lens, either.

If you buy a pre-owned lens from Lensfinder, you'll not only get a great lens but you'll save some money as well.

Since Lensfinder uses advanced fraud filtering for both buyers and sellers in their marketplace, you can trust that the lens you buy is exactly as its described.

You can communicate with the seller right within the Lensfinder platform, read seller feedback (and leave feedback once your transaction is complete), and even pay via PayPal in the platform as well.

It's easy, convenient, safe, and you save money. What's not to like?

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Commit Yourself to Honing Your Post-Processing Skills

I remember a time when some people thumbed their nose at the idea of processing their images. Somehow, it was viewed as cheating.

Well, if you ask me, processing isn't an option these days, as there are so many incredibly powerful tools available to improve the quality of your photos.

Whether you go with Photoshop or Lightroom, a newer player like Luminar or Pixlr, or do all your processing with smartphone apps like VSCO or Snapseed, dedicate yourself to developing a solid post-processing workflow so you can get every last ounce of awesome out of your photos.

Get a Better Computer for Post-Processing

Speaking of post-processing...

I've been an Apple fan for years, but they've fallen behind in terms of offering tools and features on their machines that make photo processing easy.

But you know who hasn't slouched in that department?

Microsoft.

I still have my MacBook Pro, and I still use it for some tasks. But when it comes to editing my photos, that job falls to my Microsoft Surface Book 2.

This thing is awesome, to say the least.

Not only does it have a glorious 13.5-inch detachable touchscreen (there's a 15-inch version available, too) but it also has giant trackpad, an awesome backlit keyboard, and a high-end graphics card.

On the inside, the Surface Book 2 now has Intel i7 quad-core processors available for the first time, which translates into lighting-fast speed, even when you're doing power-hungry tasks like editing photos.

You can get 8GB or 16GB of RAM, up to 1TB of storage, and it comes loaded with the surprisingly good Windows 10 as well.

On top of all that, the Surface Book 2 is the perfect companion to the awesome Surface Pen, which makes photo editing a total breeze. If you pick up a Surface Dial, it's compatible with the Surface Book 2 as well.

That means that this thing is an innovative, power-packed, feature-rich workhorse that is incredibly versatile.

If you're still using your old MacBook Pro for photo editing, I suggest that in the new year you give the Surface Book 2 a good, long look.

Learn More:

Get More Organized

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I fully admit that my image files can be a hot mess. My guess is that yours probably are too.

In 2018, I'm definitely setting out to be more organized, to get all my images labeled and into folders so I can actually find the things I'm looking for when the time comes.

I'm also going to endeavor to dump my photos more quickly. I have a tendency to go shoot, and then by the time I get home, I just want to veg on the couch, which leaves my images on the memory card for a few days after the fact.

That's a dangerous game to play, and though I've not lost any images yet, I'm certainly not doing everything I can to protect against image loss in the future.

If this sounds like you too, join me next year in getting more organized!

Give Time-Lapse a Try

When I need a break from the grind, I often go to YouTube or Vimeo and check out time-lapse videos.

I find that time-lapses of gorgeous landscapes helps me pause, take a breath, and get my batteries revved up to get back to work.

In short, I love time-lapses, but never really considered trying to make them myself, that is, until now.

Syrp, a New Zealand-based company, makes a little gadget called the Genie Mini that makes time-lapse photography loads easier.

The Genie Mini is a pint-sized motion control device that allows you to create smooth panning time-lapse videos (and real-time videos for that matter).

It connects wirelessly to your phone via a companion app, which gives you tons of control over what the Genie does and when.

And since you control this little guy from your phone, that means you can sit back, relax, and dial in your desired settings while you hang out and enjoy the view.

In addition to being small, lightweight, and packed with features, Genie Mini makes time-lapse videos a breeze.

That's because the Genie Mini app comes with factory presets so you can shoot time-lapses right out of the box. You literally don't need to know a thing about time-lapse video in order to make one!

Just mount Genie Mini to your tripod, connect your camera, fire up the app, and shoot away.

We're all busy and short on time, so when you can try something new without having to invest every waking moment of your free time to do it, I say go for it!

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Help Out Other Photographers

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It might sound a little sappy, but photography really can change the world.

In the new year, you can be part of that by helping other photographers realize their potential.

Maybe that's getting your kid their first camera. Perhaps that's offering to teach your kid's class a little bit about photography.

However you go about it, getting other people involved in photography and helping them improve their skills is a great way to spend your free time in the coming year.

Additionally, see what you can do to use your photography skills for good.

Whether that's volunteering to take photos of the animals up for adoption at the local animal shelter, offering to take some candid photos at your neighbor's family reunion or something in between, see if you can pay it forward a little in 2018 in order to make the world around you just a little bit better.



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Photography Gear That Can Totally Change Your Landscape Photography

landscape photos

When it comes to taking breathtaking landscape photos like the one above, there are many different factors involved.

The lighting is key, the perspective from which you shoot is important, and the camera settings you use can greatly impact the final result.

The landscape photography gear you use also has much influence over the quality of your photos.

There's a lot of gear you can use for landscapes - different cameras and lenses, tripods, and remotes.

But perhaps the most important camera accessory you can use for landscapes is a good set of filters.

Landscape Photography Gear: Essential Filters

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Not only are there many different types of filters that you can use in your landscape photography setup, but these filters provide many different benefits.

Some, like a polarizing filter, help cut down on glare from non-metallic surfaces, like water. Polarizers also cut down on atmospheric haze, giving you a cleaner, crisper view of distant landscape features.

Polarizers also enhance the contrast of the sky, making the blue areas more saturated and the white of the clouds more robust.

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Another must-have landscape photography accessory is a graduated neutral density (ND) filter.

Graduated ND filters are dark on the top and light on the bottom. Why?

Well, think about it - the sky is always brighter than the landscape. And as a result, when you photograph a landscape, you're forced to expose for the sky, leaving the landscape too dark, or expose for the landscape, leaving the sky to bright.

Of course, you can get around this by shooting in HDR or stacking exposures in Photoshop or Lightroom.

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But an easier task is to simply shoot with a graduated ND filter.

By placing a graduated ND in front of your lens, it darkens the sky and evens out the exposure.

That means a better-exposed image right there in-camera, and less time you have to spend trying to correct the exposure in post-processing.

Learn More:

Landscape Photography Essentials for Advanced Imaging

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There's another filter that can do your landscape photography a lot of good - a solid neutral density filter.

These filters have varying degrees of light-stopping power, measured in stops.

A 4-stop ND filter, for example, blocks out far less light than a 10-stop ND filter and generates delicate, blurry movement, as shown above.

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A 10-stop filter, on the other hand, creates otherworldly results, as shown in the clouds in the photo above.

But what these filters have in common is a consistent level of filter power throughout the filter.

That means that you can block out light during the daytime and use a long shutter speed, and get gorgeous, ethereal effects like what you see in the image above.

Whether you blur the movement of clouds or water or something in between, an ND filter opens up many opportunities for showing landscapes in a totally different light.

The Ultimate in Landscape Photography Filters

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What's important to understand about lens filters is that you get what you pay for.

Snag a cheap filter from Amazon and you'll find that the filter likely produces aberrations, ghosting, flare, and has poor color fidelity or contrast.

But if you invest in high-quality filters, like the ones in the Firecrest Ultra Elia Locardi Signature Edition Travel Kit by Formatt-Hitech, then you'll be well on your way to creating jaw-dropping landscape photos.

 landscape photography gear

Firecrest Ultra filters are professional-grade filters that are bonded to protect the filter coating.

That means that these things offer incredible durability, which you need when you're out shooting in the elements.

What's more, these filters are created using a lap and polish process, which results in hyper-neutral filters that have enhanced clarity and sharpness.

landscape photography equipment

Better still, in the Elia Locardi Kit, you get all the filters you need:

  • Firecrest Ultra 4-Stop ND
  • Firecrest Ultra 10-Stop ND
  • Firecrest Ultra Soft Edge Graduated ND
  • Firecrest Ultraslim Polarizer

landscape photography setup

The kit also comes with a 100mm filter holder, adaptor rings and step rings to fit the filters to your lens, a soft-touch outer case, filter pouches, and a booklet from Elia Locardi.

In other words, when it comes to landscape photography equipment, you simply cannot go wrong with Formatt-Hitech's Elia Locardi Kit.

This thing is loaded for bear and will help you improve the quality of your landscape photography, hands-down!

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We Recommend


Photoshop Tutorial: How to Edit Landscape Photos

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Let's face it - there are a ton of factors involved in creating a beautiful landscape photo. You need great light, a solid composition, the right gear, and your timing needs to be spot on, too.

But there's more to do after you take the photo...

If you want to maximize the quality of the shots you take, you need to learn how to edit landscape photos.

Joshua Cripps of Professional Landscape Photography Tips offers a great introductory tutorial on editing landscape photography in the video above.

Have a detailed look at some of Joshua's tips and tricks below.

Editor's Tip: Get the best images by using photo filters like a polarizer. Polarizing filters reduce glare and atmospheric haze while increasing the contrast of the sky for vastly improved results.

Post Processing Photos Should Begin in Adobe Camera RAW

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The beauty of shooting your landscape photos in RAW format is that it preserves all the data collected by the camera's sensor, unlike a JPG.

With all that data, you can make many more manipulations to your images, and non-destructive changes at that.

Adobe Camera RAW is like a primer for Photoshop in that you can make changes to things like exposure, contrast, highlights, shadows, and so forth.

It's easy to do, too. Just open your image in Camera RAW, and use the sliders you see above to make improvements to the shot.

You can also make adjustments to curves, add a vignette, apply a graduated filter, and many other handy things to make your photo pop, all before you ever open it in Photoshop.

In the screenshot above, you can see how much better the image already looks after just a few adjustments in Camera RAW.

Open the Photo in Photoshop and Get to Work

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The real fun of editing landscape photography starts when you open the image in Photoshop.

That's because Photoshop is rife with advanced tools that allow you to really punch up the drama in your photos.

As seen in the video above, Joshua adds a Dodge/Burn layer to his image to help bring more attention to the mountains in the background.

Dodging and burning is an old film technique that allows you to brighten (dodge) or darken (burn) certain areas of the image. Of course, Photoshop automates that process for you.

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Essentially, all Joshua does to brighten the mountain peaks is paint on the Dodge/Burn layer with a light color that he color-picked from the clouds.

This is important because by picking a color that's already in the photo, it makes the areas he's working on look like they were naturally that bright and colorful.

As you can see in the comparison between the before and after images above, it's not a huge difference, but it's just enough to make the mountain peaks a little more eye-catching.

Editors' Tip: Managing the exposure for many landscapes is difficult because the sky is so bright and the landscape is much darker. But with a graduated neutral density filter, you can take care of those disparities right there in-camera.

Improve Contrast by Using the Curves Adjustment

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If you have a landscape photo that's got a sky that's a little too bright and light on the contrast, you can easily correct that in Photoshop by using the Curves adjustment.

In the screenshot above, you can see the Curves adjustment panel. In its beginning state, the Curves line is perfectly flat.

But by pulling the highlights up and the shadows down, you get more of an S-curve shape, as seen below.

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The result of manipulating the curves in this manner is a photo with more contrast.

And with more contrast, the elements of the image - the sky, the mountains, and their reflections, are more visually appealing with more pop.

Now, there are other adjustments you'll likely need to make when using Curves because the changes made can often darken parts of the image too much.

For a complete tutorial on how to maximize the effectiveness of the Curves adjustment, be sure to watch Joshua's video above.

More Landscape Tutorials

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Joshua Cripps has tons of other landscape photography tutorials on photoshop, taking photos, gear, and more. Be sure to check his YouTube channel for more details!

Additionally, you can vastly improve the quality of your photos in landscape camera by using high-quality photo filters like those from Formatt-Hitech.

Formatt-Hitech has built a reputation for quality materials and high-performing filters over the years, and I can attest to that quality firsthand.

I've used their Firecrest Polarizing Filter, various Firecrest Graduated Neutral Density Filters, and various Firecrest Solid Neutral Density Filters as well.

Your ability to create breathtaking photos is only increased by using good photo filters. Get outfitted with filters and start taking better photos right now!



We Recommend


Quick Tips to Jump Start Your Mobile Photography Game

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With mobile phones increasingly having better and more capable cameras, more photographers are turning to them to take more of their photos.

But smartphone photography isn't just about pointing, tapping, and shooting...

Instead, you still need to approach mobile photography like you would with a traditional camera.

With that in mind, here's a few quick tips to help you get better photos with your smartphone.

Use the HDR Feature

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Not that long ago, the HDR feature on mobile phones was terrible - if the phone even had that feature.

That's not the case today.

Though the HDR function on my phone can't match the one on my Nikon D850, it's still a respectable performer.

That's good for me because I can't always grab shots with my phone in perfect lighting.

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Instead, when the light is extremely bright, I use the HDR feature on my phone, and you can too.

What HDR will do is take several shots and blend them together, resulting in a final image that's better-exposed.

That unappealing harsh lighting with bright highlights and dark shadows will be negated with the HDR shot that preserves the detail throughout the dynamic range.

Learn More:

Get a Good Set of Lenses

Yes, you read that right...

Not only are there plenty of lenses that you can buy to use with your mobile phone, but there's some really good ones, too.

Kenko has a set of smartphone lenses that certainly fit the bill.

They simply clip onto your phone - so they're not just easy to use, but they also create a nice, tight seal with the phone's lens to minimize light leaks.

You can choose between four lenses - a wide-angle/macro combination, a super-wide angle, a telephoto, and a fisheye lens.

Each has its own virtues, but the common feature among them is the sheer quality of the construction.

That's particularly true of the lens glass, which is finely processed so that your images are sharp, clear, and have minimal aberrations.

And, as noted above, these lenses simply clip onto your phone's built-in lens.

That means it's a quick and easy solution to getting better photos with your phone.

As if that's not enough, these lenses can also be used as kickstands for your phone.

That gives you the capability of setting your phone's timer and getting in front of the lens for some self-portraits or group shots.

 

Editor's Tip: Get Kenko’s latest updates and access to promos for discounted gear. Click here to sign up.

 

And by using the kickstand feature and your camera's timer, you can also get sharper photos because without touching the camera, there's no possibility of camera shake causing your images to be blurry.

From landscapes to portraits to macro photography and just about everything in between, these clip-on lenses by Kenko can help you elevate your smartphone photography game.

Learn More:

Use Manual Controls

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Just like with a traditional camera, the more control you take over how the camera functions, the more likely you are to get photos that are the quality that you want.

By taking control over things like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, you can fine-tune how your smartphone images look and feel.

Just a few years ago, manual controls on a smartphone camera didn't exist.

But now, many smartphone cameras have manual controls built right in.

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If your phone's camera doesn't have manual controls, you can download any number of apps, like VSCO, that do give you that control.

VSCO and many other apps also offer other expandable controls, like shooting in RAW, white balance adjustments, and controls for contrast, saturation, sharpness, and so on.

Many apps, again, like VSCO, give you a host of filters as well, which allows you to further create your artistic vision by adding grunge effects, color effects, and black and white effects. See a few of VSCO's advanced controls in the video below by Emil Pakarklis:

Our mobile phone cameras aren't quite there yet in terms of becoming the only camera we need, but they're on their way, that's for sure.

That means that future phones in our pockets will have even more bells and whistles that help us take better photos than ever.

But you don't have to wait for the future to arrive. By using the tips outlined here, you can begin maximizing the potential of your smartphone photos!

Learn More:



We Recommend


Required Gear for a Landscape Photographer

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When it comes to landscape photography, I'd have to say it's the most popular of the bunch.

Sure, portraits are fun. Street photography is a rush. Abstracts challenge your creativity in ways other genres can't.

But for me, there's just something about being out in the fresh air, capturing photos of the gorgeous scenery nearby.

When I started taking landscape photos, I did it with a hand-me-down camera, an old lens, and a tripod I picked up from a big box store for about $20.

Needless to say, I didn't have the best gear (or even a complete set of gear, for that matter...), but I had fun, and more importantly, I honed my skills as a photographer.

However, to take the next step and become a better photographer with improved results, I had to upgrade my kit.

And I know what you're thinking...it's not the gear that creates beautiful landscapes, it's the photographer.

That's definitely true, but each of us will find a time when our talents as a photographer and our desires for the types of photos we wish to create outstrip the capabilities of the equipment we use.

In that spirit, I've put together a quick list of what I think is the most essential gear for landscape photography.

Camera Body

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I'm not about to poo-poo the use of smartphones and point-and-shoot cameras for landscapes.

In fact, I've used my phone to take plenty of photos, and in some cases, I prefer them over the ones I've taken with my DSLR or mirrorless camera.

That being said, having a DSLR or mirrorless body is advantageous simply because of the greater level of control you have over the situation.

You can more easily make adjustments to the exposure settings, manipulate the depth of field, freeze or blur movement, change the white balance, and so on.

Plus, working with a full-featured camera gives you the opportunity to learn the technical aspects of photography in a way that's just not as easy to do with a smartphone or a point-and-shoot.

If you need some recommendations, check out our camera reviews for in-depth details about some of the best cameras on the market today.

Lenses

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From a practical standpoint, the lenses you use for landscape photography are the single most important piece of equipment you have in your kit.

You can have an old, beat up camera, and still take phenomenal photos.

Conversely, it's much harder to take good photos with an old, beat up lens.

Though it's often tempting to buy a high-end camera first, the reverse should actually happen.

If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, keep using it but upgrade your lens. That will have the single largest impact on the quality of your photos.

When looking for a lens for landscape photography, a good place to start is with a wide-angle.

These lenses have a wide-angle of view (thus the name) that allows you to capture more of the scene before you.

That means that you can use the shorter focal length to give you more flexibility in terms of framing and composition.

Though lenses can run into the thousands of dollars, you don't need to spend a bunch of money to get a good lens.

Wide-angle lenses can be found for a few hundred dollars that are compatible with various makes and models of cameras.

There are other options too, including standard and telephoto lenses.

Check out this in-depth guide to landscape photography lenses for more details.

Filters

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Adding a top-notch lens to your kit isn't the only optic you need to maximize the quality of your photos.

To really pull as much detail and visual punch out of the scene as you can, you need to add a set of filters to your kit as well.

There are various types of filters that are useful for landscape photography:

  • Polarizing filters help reduce glare off of surfaces like water while also making the sky pop, with deeper blues and bright whites that give clouds added definition. Polarizers also help cut the effect of haze, helping you create images that have more clarity and definition.
  • Neutral density filters have a darkened coating that makes long exposure photography a possibility during the daytime. If you want to create images of water like the one shown above, a neutral density filter is a must have.
  • Graduated neutral density filters give you greater control over the exposure of your landscape photos. Often, you'll find that the sky is very bright but the landscape itself is much darker - which poses a problem for your camera which often can't accommodate such a wide dynamic range. A graduated neutral density filter helps reduce that dynamic range by darkening the sky and leaving the landscape as-is for a better-exposed photo.

The great thing about filters is that you can get them in packaged bundles so you have multiple filters at your disposal.

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One such bundle is the ND + ND Grad Combo Kit by Formatt-Hitech.

As the name states, this kit gives you the power of neutral density and graduated neutral density filters in one package.

That means you can dive into long-exposure photography with your neutral density filters and create stunning landscapes with a much-improved level of exposure with your graduated neutral density filters. Get a closer look at Formatt-Hitech's graduated ND filters in the video below:

The Formatt-Hitech neutral density filters come in 1, 2, and 3-top variations, as do the graduated neutral density filters, giving you six filters in one kit.

Use the 1-stop ND filter to extend your shutter speed at dawn or dusk, or add the 3-stop graduated ND filter to darken the sky without darkening the landscape below.

Some photographers argue that filters aren't necessary because many of the effects you can get with an ND, graduated ND, or polarizer can be achieved in post-processing.

But if you ask me, the more that's done in post-processing, the more the image looks like it was processed.

For my money, adding filters to your kit so you can make adjustments in the field is the better way to capture a landscape photo.

Tripod

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I know that in years past when I was out taking landscape photos, I was often in such a rush to get images of everything I saw that I left my tripod in the car, that way I could work more quickly.

Then I realized that even though I could take more photos the faster I worked, the quality of those photos was degraded.

By not taking my time to think about the interplay between my lens and the landscape, the landscape and light, and how I was framing the shot, I was creating a whole bunch of photos that weren't at all worthy of showing off.

So, though a tripod has the obvious benefits of giving your camera the stable base it needs to get the clearest, sharpest results, a tripod is also a tool you can use to slow things down and get the best shot you're capable of getting.

Besides, once you start using your neutral density filters for long exposures, you'll have to mount your camera to a tripod to avoid camera shake.

Actually, using a tripod for a regular exposure helps avoid camera shake as well, so adding a solid tripod to your kit is a must-have in my book.

As an experiment, take a few landscape photos by holding your camera, and then take a few more of the same scene with your camera on a tripod. The chances are that you will see a difference in the sharpness and quality of the photo.

Learn more about good tripods for landscape photography.

Wrapping It Up

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This isn't an exhaustive list of all the gear you need as a landscape photographer, but it will certainly serve you well to get improved photos.

Remember that, yes, ultimately it's your creative eye that will have the most influence on the quality of the shot, but having the appropriate gear will help you get your creativity out of your mind and onto your camera's sensor with much greater ease.

Don't worry about filling out your landscape photography kit all in one fell swoop, either.

Worry about your lens and camera first, then fill in with filters and a tripod.

I think you'll find that even with these basic essentials, your landscape photos will have much more visual impact that leaves you and your viewers breathless.



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Shoot Like a Pro With These Mobile Photography Tips

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I know what you're thinking...

"Shoot like a pro" is not something you typically associate with mobile photography.

And I admit, professional photographers aren't using their smartphones as their primary camera.

But, that doesn't mean that professionals never use their smartphones to take high-quality photos.

When you think about it, the cameras on our phones today have better resolution, more megapixels, and more robust supporting features (like in-camera panoramic and time-lapse controls) than even the most expensive cameras did 15 years ago.

So before you think that you can't take incredible shots with your smartphone, consider these essential mobile photography tips.

Seek Out Interesting Subjects

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One thing that I find myself doing (and I wish I didn't) is that I'll be out shooting with my smartphone, and, despite being unencumbered by carrying a big camera, I don't always look around for more interesting subjects to photograph.

By that I mean that I get to my destination, get my phone out, and take some photos without really searching for a scene that might be more interesting or unique.

It's a problem I see with a lot of other photographers too, and if you want to up your mobile photography game, it's an issue you'll need to avoid.

Instead of just going through the motions of taking a photo, like the plain old sunset shown above, really think about your subject and its surroundings and how you might be able to find a better way to photograph them.

If you're taking a portrait, rotate around the subject to see how the different direction of light changes the look and feel of the photo.

If you're photographing a landscape, see what moving to the left or right of your current position does to change how the scene is presented.

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As seen in the image above, simply adding a person completely changes the shot for the better.

Try incorporating motion into your shots as well - many smartphones have long exposure controls built right in.

Your phone can hold tons of photos, so do yourself a favor and move around, search for better opportunities for taking photos, and don't hesitate to press that shutter button - a lot!

Actually Learn How to Use Your Phone's Camera

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As I noted above, smartphone cameras today have all kinds of helpful settings and modes that help you take better photos.

But I'm always surprised at how little people know about the functionality of their phone's camera.

You'd never go out shooting with a DSLR or a mirrorless camera without reading the manual and learning what each button and function does, would you?

So why should it be any different when you're using your smartphone? If you have an iPhone 7, check out the video below by Video Gadgets Journal to get a few top tips about using the iPhone's camera:

Go beyond the basic operations of switching between square format and regular format.

Don't limit yourself to still photos either...

Try a panoramic photo. Give HDR a go. Learn how to adjust the exposure.

Heck, download some third-party camera apps to see what other fun features you can find.

The point is that if you want to take truly spectacular photos with your phone, you have to first know how to use the features it offers you.

Find Ways to Add Depth

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Making your smartphone photos feel three-dimensional is an excellent way to give them more impact.

The difficulty, of course, is finding ways to make something that's two-dimensional feel three-dimensional.

Fortunately, there are plenty of tricks you can use to help viewers feel as though the image has some dimension to it.

You can use light to your advantage, and feature long shadows in the shot that give height to the subject.

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You might incorporate foreground interest that gives some context to the distance between the foreground and the background.

Taking up a very low shooting position - something that's easy to do with a smartphone - helps you get foreground elements into the shot.

Tried-and-true techniques like using leading lines - like the pathway in the image above - will also make your photos feel like they have more depth as well.

And the beauty of using these techniques is that they draw the viewers into the shot.

The more you can do that, the more time the viewer will spend inspecting different areas of the photo, and the more time they spend doing that, the more the image will have a feeling of being a three-dimensional space.

Help Yourself Out With a Smartphone Lens

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A great thing about using your phone as a camera is that there are so many accessories available today that make their functionality even greater and the results you get more refined.

From tripods to flashes to apps for taking and editing photos, there are hundreds of options for turning your smartphone into a better camera.

There are also plenty of lenses out there that can help you get sharper photos while giving you more leeway in terms of field of view.

Kenko makes a series of clip-on lenses for smartphones that will help you elevate your smartphone photography instantly.

For example, their Real Pro 0.4x Super Wide Lens expands the range of your phone's lens to take wide-angle shots at 165-degrees that are ideal for landscape photography, photos of large groups, and general snapshots.

The lens is crafted with finely processed glass that results in images that are sharp and have minimal distortion and vignetting.

What's more, Kenko's mobile phone lenses are incredibly easy to use.

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Where other lenses have to attach to the phone using a case or some other apparatus, Kenko's lenses simply clip on, as you can see in the image above.

Better still, Kenko offers a fisheye lens with a 180-degree view and a macro/wide angle combination lens with a 120-degree view, so if you get the set, you can pursue all kinds of unique photos with your phone.

Kenko's lenses can even be used as a stand for your phone, and are compatible with just about any modern camera-enabled gadget, including tablets and laptops.

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Ultimately, you can follow all the tips and tricks you want and get all the mobile photography accessories you can get your hands on, but like any other type of photography, what will make the most difference in the quality of your photos is practicing.

But hey, practicing is more fun if you have the right gear and the know-how, right?

So, take these tips to heart and get out and shoot some photos with your phone. After all, practice makes perfect!



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Simple Strategies for Protecting Your Camera Gear

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When I think back to how naive I was when I first started in photography, I can't help but chuckle.

I spent way too much on a camera body and not enough on lenses.

I also spent more time than I'd like to admit chimping instead of checking the histogram.

There were plenty of compositional and technical errors too.

But I also have to cringe at how I neglected my gear.

I mean, I didn't even have a real camera bag to carry my stuff - I just dropped it in a regular backpack and off I went.

It's a wonder my first camera and lens made it through all that unscathed...

I'm lucky in that regard because all that gear isn't just expensive, but it's got some delicate pieces and parts, too.

That's why you need to not follow my example and take steps to ensure your equipment is safe, sound, and protected.

Here's how...

Get a UV Filter

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Perhaps one of the easiest things you can do to keep your lens glass safe from scratches and environmental contaminants is to get a UV filter.

Some photographers thumb their nose at this idea because they don't want to degrade the sharpness their expensive lens can achieve by slapping a crappy UV filter on the front of it.

There's a point to that, to be sure. But the lesson is to use a good UV filter, not a poor quality one.

Kenko makes a great UV filter that offers exceptional build quality that's been honed over decades of manufacturing experience in Japan.

Their UV filter has polished optical glass that not only protects your lens but maintains the sharpness and quality of the image that you demand.

Kenko has mastered the art of building quality filters, and their UV filter is no exception. See how Kenko manufactures their filters in the video below:

This particular UV filter has a SLIM ring mount, so you don't have to worry about vignetting when shooting with a wide-angle lens. They're also available in a variety of common sizes, from 37mm up to 82mm.

Better still, the Kenko UV filter won't set you back a ton of money, so you can afford to add more pieces to your kit, like Kenko's circular polarizing filter.

In fact, these UV filters start at just over $11.

That means you get a high-quality UV filter that won't impact the quality of your images and that will protect your precious lens glass from scratches, dust, dirt, rain, and other elements, all for the price of a couple of coffees.

Talk about a deal!

Invest in a Few Waterproof Bags

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I know not every photographer works in the rain, snow, and sleet, so some of you might balk at the need for a set of waterproof bags for your gear.

But hear me out on this...

First, you never know when you might find yourself out shooting a beautiful landscape when the weather turns and it starts to rain.

In that situation, having a place to keep your gear where you're guaranteed it won't get wet is good peace of mind to have.

What's more, if you shoot at the beach as I often do, you know that occasionally a big wave will present itself and soak your bag, even though you've positioned it at what you assumed was a safe distance from the spray.

Again, wouldn't it be nice to know your gear is protected just in case?

Heck, even when you visit a waterfall, you might just find that there's enough spray to make you nervous about your gear being out in the open without some waterproofing to protect it.

And I know what you're thinking - If my camera and lens are weather-sealed, what's the big deal?

That's easy - they are weather-sealed not weatherproof.

For me, it's a simple choice...

Whenever I'm remotely close to water, I put my gear in waterproof bags.

Better safe than sorry, right?

Always Carry Cleaning Supplies

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It seems like a no-brainer to have things like a dust blower and microfiber cloth in your camera bag so you can do some housekeeping when you're out shooting.

Yet, you'd be surprised (or...maybe not) at how often I forget one or both of these items, or one of my shooting buddies forgets one or both of these items.

It's a real "DUH" moment when you see a smudge on your lens, only to find you don't have any way of removing it at the moment.

But beyond things like fingerprints being annoying, if you don't have cleaning tools with you when you shoot, things like dust and dirt can quickly build-up on your lens. And I don't have to tell you that the longer those contaminants are on the filter or lens glass, the more likely they are to cause damage.

What's more, if you tend to swap lenses when you're out shooting, the delicate insides of your camera like the sensor and the mirror can get gunked up pretty quick.

Though I don't recommend plopping down on the beach to clean your sensor, at least having a blower can help you mitigate some of the easy-to-remove stuff that finds its way into your camera body. If you aren't sure how to clean your camera's sensor, check out the video above by PhotoRec TV.

When you're at home, having a full cleaning kit is absolutely essential.

Depending on how often you shoot and where, you might need to clean your lenses, sensor, and mirror once every few weeks. Most of us likely don't need to clean our gear that often, but when the time comes, be prepared with a comprehensive camera cleaning kit.

These kits come with everything you need, and will cost you much less than getting your stuff professionally serviced, that's for sure!

Keep an Eye on the Temperature

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Shooting in extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on your camera.

That's because as you move your camera from a cold environment to a warm environment (and vice versa) it can fog up.

Then, moving back to the original environment can cause that fog to condense.

I don't have to tell you that condensation inside your camera or lens is not a good situation...

Fortunately, the solution to this problem is simple.

All you need are some Ziploc bags and some silica gel packs like the ones you often find in shoeboxes.

The combination of the air-tight bag and the silica packs will help suck any moisture out of your camera and the air inside the bag.

Just get into the habit of putting your camera in the Ziploc when you're done shooting, add the silica pack, close it up, and let the magic happen!

And that magic isn't just contained to drying out your camera. Check out all the weird uses for silica packs in the video below by Business Insider:

Wrapping It Up

Protecting your gear is obviously a crucial undertaking.

Some aspects of ensuring your expensive equipment is safe can get expensive - like investing in a good, solid camera bag, for example.

But, there are plenty of other simple, quick, and inexpensive tricks you can use to keep your camera and lens well-protected, clean, and working in peak form.

In fact, you can outfit yourself with all the tools I've described above for about $50.

That's a small investment to make for all the benefits they provide.

Don't be like the old me and by willy-nilly with your gear. Keep it protected and clean, and it'll last you a lot longer - with better pictures to boot!



We Recommend


Smartphone Photography Hacks You Don't Want to Miss

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If you're sick of taking blah photos with your smartphone, this is the tutorial for you...

Photography is easy with your phone - after all, you always have it with you, right?

But taking good photos with your phone requires more than easy access to its camera.

Here's a few smartphone photography hacks that will help you take your mobile photography to another level.

Editor's Tip: Did you know you can improve the quality of your smartphone photos by using accessories like add-on lenses? Kenko has wide-angle, macro, super-wide-angle, portrait, and telephoto lenses that give your smartphone even more photo-taking power. Learn more by visiting their website.

Learn How to Manually Adjust the Exposure

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Most smartphones perform admirably in typical lighting conditions, but when the lighting gets too dim, too bright or too harsh, trouble can ensue.

You've seen it, I'm sure - areas of the photo that are "blown out," meaning, they've lost detail and all you can see is pure black or pure white in some spots.

You can adjust for that by manually by tapping the phone's screen, which reveals a vertical slider that you can use to brighten or darken the photo.

This is especially handy when the photo is too bright because darkening it allows you to prevent blown out highlights, which are nearly impossible to recover in post-processing.

Learn More:

Change the Perspective

If you look at your camera roll and see that all your photos look similar, it's time to change things up.

What we're accustomed to when shooting with our phone is standing up straight, sticking our arms out, and taking the photo from our eye level (as seen above).

But when every single shot you take is taken like that, they can look a little boring.

By switching up the perspective and shooting from higher up (even by just a few feet) or down low (again, even by just a few feet), you can drastically change how the image looks.

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Not only does that give viewers a more interesting view of the subject, but it also allows you to eliminate or add elements as you see fit.

For example, by taking a higher shooting position, you can shoot downward toward your subject and eliminate a distracting background.

Conversely, by getting down low to the ground, you can include foreground interest, which will be nice and blurry, adding even more interest to the image.

Editor's Tip: If you don't want to kneel or lie down on the ground for a better smartphone photo, you can use a kickstand to prop up your phone to get the same perspective. Kenko's smartphone lenses double as a kickstand, giving you even more creative possibilities for your mobile photography. Find out more here.

Editing is Not Optional

And by editing, I don't mean slapping a filter on it in Instagram...

If you want to reveal all the colors, textures, and detail in the photos you take with your phone, you need to dedicate yourself to learning how to properly edit photos.

That doesn't mean you have to download them to your computer, either.

There are thousands of editing apps for smartphones these days, some obviously better than others.

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VSCO is one of the most beloved photo editing apps because it offers you control over everything from brightness and saturation to sharpness and contrast.

It also has a host of beautiful filter effects that can completely change the look and feel of the photo.

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Snapseed (available for iOS and Android) is another top pick of mobile photographers. It offers features like a healing brush to eliminate aberrations, perspective warp to fix skewed lines, tonal contrast tools, and a bunch of filters, too.

It was developed by Google, so if that tells you anything, it's that it's power-packed with tons of features that will help you elevate the photos you take to a whole new level.

Learning to maximize the editing process to create something even more beautiful will take time, but in the end, it's one of the best things you can do to take better smartphone photos.

Combined with using high-quality lenses, learning how to manually adjust the exposure, and changing up the perspective, you can't lose!



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Square Filters or Circular Filters? The Pros and Cons

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There are two major types of photography filters - circular, which screw onto the end of the lens, and square, which are mounted in front of the lens using a special filter mount.

Both types of filters have their virtues, especially if you opt for a filter that's well-made and gives you results that are sound.

Both types of filters also have their advantages and disadvantages.

That means you have a choice to make...

Consult the guide below to determine what type of filter is best for your needs.

Square Filters

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As noted earlier, square (or rectangular) filters are most often attached to your lens by using a lens holder, like the one seen above.

These lens mounts can accommodate a variety of sizes of filters and have a host of other hardware that makes the use of square or rectangular filters a breeze. This includes threaded adapter rings and step down rings to accommodate different sizes of lenses.

Square and rectangular filters are made from resin or glass and are offered in a wide range of sizes to accommodate different types of camera systems.

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For many photographers, a 100mm filter (like the one shown above) - which is four inches square - is the go-to size. However, you can often find filters that range from 67x85mm to 165x185mm.

Square and rectangular filters can be used for all sorts of purposes as well.

Perhaps most common are neutral density filters that are used to reduce the amount of light entering your lens to achieve longer shutter speeds.

Also popular are graduated neutral density filters, which allow you to darken the sky and lighten the foreground when photographing landscapes for a more even exposure.

Advantages

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This type of filter offers photographers plenty of advantages:

  • You can use the same filters on many different lenses. With a filter kit like the one shown above, you can adjust the filter holder to meet different lens diameters.
  • You can easily stack filters to multiply the power of the filters. For example, you can put a 6-stop and a 3-stop ND together for the equivalent performance of a 9-stop ND.
  • Square and rectangular filters often have less vignetting because their surface extends well beyond the edges of the camera's lens.

Disadvantages

Though square and rectangular filters have a lot to offer, there are a couple of things of which to be aware:

  • These filters are much larger than their circular counterparts, so care must be taken when using them and transporting them.
  • Square and rectangular filters can be very fragile, especially if you opt for a cheap filter instead of one that's constructed well.
  • These filters require a bit more setup time as you need to mount them and unmount them when you pack your gear for the next shoot location.

Circular Filters

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Unlike square filters, circular filters are made to screw onto the end of a specific sized lens. Naturally, the size of the filter you buy is directly dependent upon the diameter of the lens you use.

However, like square filters, you can get adapters to adjust the size of a circular filter to different sized lenses.

The trick is to buy the filter such that it fits your largest lens, and then use a step adapter to make it fit a smaller one.

For example, if you have a lens with a 67mm thread and another with a 58mm thread, you'd buy the 67mm size and an adapter to accommodate the 58mm thread as well.

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Photo filters from outfits like Formatt-Hitech come in a wide range of sizes, from 39mm on the small end to a robust 127mm on the large end.

There is just as much variety in circular filters as there is in square filters as well.

Pick up a circular polarizer, a circular soft-edge graduated ND (as shown above), a circular ND, and even circular UV filters to protect your lens glass.

Advantages

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People that purchase a circular filter do so because of the many advantages they provide:

  • They're easy to setup. In fact, you can screw the filter onto your lens and simply leave it there for the next time.
  • Circular filters are stackable - just screw one filter onto another.
  • Circular filters tend to stand up to abuse more so than square or rectangular options.

Disadvantages

When considering a circular filter, bear the following in mind:

  • Circular filters aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. If you have multiple lenses of different diameters, you either need to buy filters for each lens or use adapter rings.
  • Cheap circular filters can have vignetting, though this isn't a problem with well-constructed circular filters that have a small profile, like the Circular Firecrest ND filter shown above.

Making a Decision

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Ultimately, when you buy a filter, so long as it's something that's of a high quality, you can go with a square or a circular filter and get great results.

As noted above, square filters are nice because you can use them with virtually any size of lens.

On the other hand, circular filters are quicker to use because you can simply screw them onto your lens without worrying about using a lens mount.

What it will come down to is what you think fits best with your workflow and the type of lens you feel most comfortable using.



We Recommend


Stop Making These Landscape Photography Mistakes

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Let's face it...

A lot can go wrong when you photograph a landscape. And I mean a lot.

And mistakes aren't just for beginners - I've been behind the lens for a long, long time, and I still make plenty of bad landscape photography mistakes.

Fortunately, you and I aren't alone in our struggle.

In the video above, Benjamin Jaworskyj outlines some of the most common mistakes that people make when photographing landscapes.

Have a look at what he has to say about bad landscape photos and learn how you can turn those mistakes into successes!

For a few more details on some of Benjamin's tips, keep reading below. 

Landscape Photography Mistake #1: Shooting Under Poor Lighting Conditions

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As the sun rises, moves across the sky, and sets, the value of its light changes.

That is, some points during the day offer excellent light for landscape photography while others don't.

Bad lighting is one of the common culprits of bad landscape photography, yet it's so easy to avoid this mistake.

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On the one hand, you can shoot during the best time for great lighting - golden hour - which occurs at sunrise and sunset, as seen in the two images above.

Golden hour lighting is soft, even, and warm, and sheds glorious light across the landscape and sets the sky on fire with colors.

What's more, since the sun is so low on the horizon, golden hour also offers up wonderfully long shadows that add depth and dimension to your landscape photos.

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Unfortunately, it's not possible to take every landscape shot during golden hour, which means you have to find ways to overcome the challenges of bad lighting, like that which you find during midday.

Midday light is very harsh, has cool tones, and can cause reflections off of things like streams and lakes.

But with a circular polarizing filter, you can overcome those obstacles.

Polarizing filters not only eliminate glare, but they also reduce atmospheric haze that's often prevalent during the daytime, as seen in the photo above.

Not only that, but polarizing filters will also boost contrast in the sky, that way the blue color of the atmosphere is deeper and the white of the clouds is brighter, as seen below.

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It is for these reasons that a polarizing filter is one of the best accessories for landscape photography.

It can help you create more dynamic shots, even when you're forced to work with harsher lighting.

That's especially true if you opt for a high-quality polarizer, like the ones available from Formatt-Hitech.

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These filters are made using Schott Superwhite glass, which is among the finest glass available on the market today.

Combined with its multicoating technology, that gives you a filter that will be durable and offer impeccable performance, leading to improved photos.

Learn More:

Landscape Photography Mistake #2: Relying on Post-Processing to Fix Mistakes

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Post-processing your images using programs like Lightroom or Photoshop is a great way to enhance your photos to make the most impact.

But where you can go wrong with your landscape photography is getting into thinking that those programs are to be used to fix your mistakes rather than as a way to enhance what's already good about the photo.

There's something to be said for slowing things down and taking your time in the field so that you minimize errors and get the best possible shot in-camera.

Not only does that help you learn how to utilize your camera to get the best shots, but it also saves you time from sitting at your computer trying to fix everything wrong with it.

In that regard, think of post-processing not as a savior for bad photos, but as a process you can use to make them even better than they already are!

Learn More:

Landscape Photography Mistake #3: Forgetting the Foreground

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One of the keys to having an impactful landscape photo is to have a strong subject that draws the attention of the viewer.

That being the case, it's sometimes easy to forget the "supporting cast" of features that make for a great photo.

One of the most important supporting features to have in a landscape shot is the foreground because it acts like an introduction to the shot.

Not only can the foreground give the image much-needed detail like texture, but it can also help you create an image that has more depth to it.

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In this example, you can see how the inclusion of more foreground than background helps bring you into the shot.

The colors and textures of the grasses give context to the scene, and help move your eyes toward the big red barn in the middleground of the photo.

Foreground elements can be just about anything, too. Plants, rocks, leading lines, colors - you name it!

By incorporating these elements in the foreground, you'll set yourself up for a much more visually stimulating photograph.

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Final Thoughts

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Taking gorgeous landscape photos doesn't have to be overly complicated, nor do landscape photography mistakes have to keep you down.

With these landscape photography tips for beginners, you can learn how to avoid those mistakes and focus on getting the best possible images with your camera.

Be sure to check out Benjamin's full video for even more tips on how to avoid bad landscape photography mistakes.



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The Best Filters to Have in Your Bag (and Why You Need Them)

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Best Filters for Photography

It can be a bit overwhelming when you just start out as a photographer.

There's a lot to learn, first of all, and there's a ton of gear to sort through and purchase.

I find that I hear new photographers talk about buying cameras, lenses, and tripods, but seldom do I hear them discuss what filters to buy.

That's a shame because filters can make a significant difference in how your images turn out. As a result, I put a good collection of filters as a must-have for any photographer.

The question is, what filters do you need, and more importantly, why do you need them?

Let's find out!

Polarizing Filter

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For me, the most important filter to have in your bag is a polarizer.

That's because it's so versatile and offers you many advantages.

First, a polarizer reduces glare off of non-metallic surfaces. So when you're out photographing a landscape, a polarizer comes in handy when there's water in the shot.

In the image above, notice how there's no glare off the lake - just what you want!

Second, polarizers increase the contrast of the sky, making the blue areas deeper and more robust and making the white clouds pop against that backdrop.

Lastly, a polarizing filter helps reduce atmospheric haze. That means that instead of hazy conditions obstructing the view of a distant mountain range, with a polarizer, you get a much clearer view.

How to Use a Polarizer

Firecrest Circular Polarizer

Polarizing filters, like the Firecrest Circular Polarizer by Formatt-Hitech shown above, are housed in a circular mount that screws onto the end of your lens.

That means that once you add the filter, you simply need to frame up the shot to get the composition you want.

Then, because polarizers rotate, you need to turn the filter to see the effect it has on your image. Doing this while using Live View will make this process easier.

Sometimes the effect of a polarizer is quite subtle, so you might need to rotate the filter a couple of times to identify the position that's ideal for the shot you want.

Bear in mind as well that polarizers usually have the most impact when the sun is at a right angle to the camera.

And that's it! Just a few simple turns of the filter and you'll have a photo that's got less haze, better contrast, and no glare.

Learn More:

Neutral Density Filters

2mm firecrest filters

A neutral density (ND) filter has darkened glass that allows you to use longer shutter speeds and larger apertures than would normally be possible.

That's because the darkened filter, like the Formatt-Hitech Firecrest ND shown above, restrict the amount of light that enters the lens.

It's kind of like a pair of sunglasses for your lens!

Just like sunglasses allow you to keep your eyes open wider and for longer periods of time in sunny conditions, a neutral density filter does the same for your camera.

Superslim Firecrest ND

It's important to note the "neutral" part of the filter's name, too.

ND filters - good ones, anyway - have no impact on the colors of the image. Instead, they just reduce the amount of light, leaving you with a beautiful, color-correct image.

What's more, ND filters come in various shapes - rectangular or circular as shown above - and various strengths as well.

The strength - or the filtering power - of the filter is measured in stops, with 1-stop being nominally dark and a 16-stop being extraordinarily dark.

Naturally, the strength of the filter determines just how large an aperture and how long a shutter speed you can use during daytime shooting.

How to Use an ND Filter

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Before mounting your ND filter to your lens, you first need to set up your camera and compose the shot.

That's because with the ND filter on the lens - especially darker ND filters - you won't be able to see the scene.

Next, select the desired aperture or shutter speed to get the look that you want in your image.

For example, if you're photographing a waterfall like the one shown above and you want to replicate the blurred movement of the water, you would choose a slow shutter speed, say, two seconds. Paired with the lowest ISO your camera will allow and a moderate aperture of f/11 or f/16, the resulting image should have the blur you're looking for with a deep enough depth of field to keep everything sharp.

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Now, if you took the image at this point without having the ND filter attached, the photo would be grossly overexposed due to the long shutter speed.

So, adding the ND filter resolves that issue while also allowing you to maintain the needed camera settings to get the blurry water effect that you want.

Generally speaking, a three-stop ND filter is the best for most shooting conditions - daytime landscapes like the one shown above - although you might need something more powerful if it's extremely bright out.

Learn More:

Graduated ND Filters

Firecrest ND Grad Filters

Graduated neutral density filters like the Firecrest ND by Formatt-Hitech shown above have a darkened area at the top and little to no filtering power at the bottom.

That makes these types of filters the ideal tool for evening out the exposure between a sky that's very bright and a foreground that's dark.

Graduated ND filters come in rectangular and circular variations, and also vary in terms of their darkness and the transition from dark to light.

By that I mean that some filters like the one above have a very gradual transition, making them the best choice for landscapes in which there's not a definite horizon, such as those in which there are trees, mountains, or other features extending into the sky above the horizon.

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On the other hand, for scenes in which the horizon is quite defined, like the seascape shown above, a hard-edge graduated ND filter is a great choice.

Rather than there being a gradual change in its filtering power, a hard-edge grad transitions very quickly, allowing you to more precisely control the bright sky and dark foreground when the horizon is very clear.

How to Use a Graduated ND Filter

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The process for using a graduated ND is quite similar to using a traditional ND filter.

Set up your gear and frame up the shot, then add the graduated ND filter to your lens.

Looking through the viewfinder or using Live View, move the filter up or down as needed until you have the darkened sky that's desired.

When doing so, pay close attention to the horizon. You want the filtering effect to align with the horizon if you're using a hard-edged grad, and if you're using a soft-edge grad, be sure that the filtering power extends slightly below the horizon.

Doing so ensures you won't have a bright line of sky along the horizon, and also prevents a dark line of land near the horizon too.

Learn More:

With that, you have a quick list of the most essential filters for photography.

There are other types of filters to consider - UV filters and super-dark ND filters among them - but if you outfit yourself with the filters I've discussed here, you'll be well-equipped to tackle most situations you'll encounter.



We Recommend


The Best Items For Your DSLR

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If you've had a DSLR for any amount of time, you've likely realized a few things.

First, there's a lot to learn about how to use your camera.

Second, there's a ton of accessories out there that you can purchase to expand your camera's capabilities in an effort to capture better photos.

In both regards, things can get a little overwhelming...

But man, is it exciting!

On the one hand, learning how to use your DSLR to its fullest extent is awesome because the result of your hard work is (hopefully) images that are wall-worthy.

But like most artists, photographers are usually in pursuit of a better photo, no matter how great their last one was.

That's where all the accessories come in.

I wouldn't say that I have Gear Acquisition Syndrome (GAS), but I do enjoy the hunt for the next gadget or doo-dad that I can try with my DSLR.

In that spirit, I've compiled a list of a few items that I certainly enjoy, and I think you'll enjoy too.

Alpine Labs Spark

If you're looking for a do-it-all camera remote, Spark by Alpine Labs is it.

Spark is that tiny gadget on top of the camera in the image above. But don't let its small stature fool you - this is one powerful remote!

Use it as a wired trigger, an infrared remote, or as a wireless trigger using the Spark smartphone app.

That means you can take long exposures, selfies and group photos, and even real-time and time-lapse videos, all with the same remote.

If the 30-foot infrared range isn't enough, simply switch to using the smartphone app, and you can control Spark from up to 100 feet away using Bluetooth connectivity.

Even better, if your phone runs out of juice, you can use Spark on its own to program time-lapse intervals!

Learn more about Spark.

Sirui W-2204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod

Obviously, a tripod is an essential component of your DSLR swag bag.

Like a lot of other camera gear, you certainly get what you pay for when you buy a tripod.

I'll admit, I gave some cheap tripods a try, and as you can imagine, I went through them one after the other because they always broke.

Then I got my hands on the Sirui W-2204 tripod, and I haven't bought another one since.

Not only is this thing waterproof (which is great for my long exposure adventures at the beach) but it's built like a tank.

But that high-quality construction doesn't mean that the tripod is heavy. You get something that's durable and lightweight (and easy to setup and take down, too).

It's also versatile - remove one of the legs, attach it to the center column, and you have yourself a monopod. It can even hold up to 40 pounds - more than enough for my DSLR and a big lens.

Learn more about the Sirui W-2204.

HandlePod

As much as you need a full-sized tripod, sometimes you'll encounter a situation in which you can't use a full-sized tripod, or you might simply want to travel lean and mean and leave your tripod at home.

That's where HandlePod comes in.

This versatile accessory gives you all sorts of options for supporting your DSLR.

You can mount your camera to it and use it as a tabletop quadpod.

You can also hold HandlePod in your hand with your DSLR attached and use it as a handle for taking stills and videos that have reduced camera shake. Press it against a solid object like a tree trunk, and you can get more stable photos as well.

And the best part?

As seen in the image above, you can also lash HandlePod to a stationary object, allowing you to take group photos or selfies without worry that your camera will tip over or fall off.

It's small too - small enough to fit in your pocket - so it is certainly easy to carry around.

Learn more about HandlePod.

4V Design Piuma QR Camera Strap

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I find a lot of my colleagues invest a ton of money in their cameras, lenses, and other accessories, but then still carry their camera around on the cheap, uncomfortable strap that came with the camera.

Not me.

The Piuma QR camera strap is incredibly soft, amazingly comfortable, and light as a feather.

The strap has a unique shape that allows you to comfortably carry your DSLR over the shoulder, around your neck, or across your chest. And if you're a tall person (like me) or short, with dual length adjustments, the strap will fit you like a glove.

Better still, the Piuma QR strap has a quick release camera attachment so you can quickly and easily remove it from your camera. That comes in handy when you mount your camera on a tripod and don't want your strap flapping around in the wind.

Add to that a memory foam pad, high grip technology that keeps it from slipping on your shoulder or neck, and stunning aesthetics, this is the camera strap you need for your DSLR.

Learn more about the 4V Design Piuma QR Camera Strap.

Formatt-Hitech Colby Brown Signature Edition Landscape Photography Filter Kit

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If you're a landscape photographer, a solid set of filters is as much of a must-have as a good lens.

There's plenty of obstacles landscape photographers face, from uneven exposure from the sky to the landscape, not being able to use long shutter speeds in the daytime, and sunset photos that just aren't quite right from an exposure perspective.

The Colby Brown Signature Edition Landscape Photography Filter Kit helps you address all those problems...

The included Firecrest 6-Stop ND filter allows you to take long exposures even during the daytime.

The Firecrest ND soft edge grad filter brings the dynamic range of landscapes into a more acceptable region by darkening bright skies and leaving the landscape unfiltered.

The ND reverse grad helps you perfect sunrise and sunset photos by evening out the exposure with the darkest filtration in the middle of the filter, right where the rising or setting sun would be.

The kit comes with all the hardware you need too, including a Firecrest 100mm filter holder, step rings, and an 82mm rotating adapter ring. That makes this an all-in-one filter kit for DSLR shooters.

Learn more about the Colby Brown Signature Edition Landscape Photography Filter Kit.

Vanguard Alta Sky 51D Backpack

Of course, you need something to carry your DSLR, and Vanguard camera bags are among the best.

Pictured above is the Vanguard Alta Sky 51D, a camera backpack that's purpose-built for the DSLR shooter on the go.

Not only can you carry your gear in comfort with an ergonomic Air System back, but the Alta Sky 51D also gives you plenty of support with a harness and waistbelt that helps spread the load out across your chest and hips.

There are multiple entry-points into the bag as well, so you can grab your gear from the back, side, or top - whatever is easiest at the moment.

You don't have to dig around looking for your gear either. As you can see above, the interior compartment is beautifully organized, and with that bright yellow interior, you won't be lacking for an ability to see what's inside, either.

Carry one or two DSLRs with the lenses attached, a few lenses, memory cards, batteries, a camera remote...you get the picture. It's a bag that can fulfill all your carrying needs!

Learn more about the Vanguard Alta Sky 51D.

Yongnuo YN560 IV Wireless Speedlight

As DSLR accessories go, you can't get much more bang for your buck than this flash.

It's smart to be leery of off-brand accessories because the chances are good that they just won't be up to snuff and you'll be replacing them sooner rather than later.

However, that's simply not the case with the Yongnuo YN560.

This is the latest in a long line of Yongnuo flashes that have a solid reputation for build and performance.

For about $70.00, you get performance from the flash that's similar to name-brand flashes that cost three or four times as much.

It supports wireless master functions and can perform as a wireless slave as well. It's even got a multiple trigger synchronous mode so you can fire multiple flashes at the same time.

If you're on a budget - heck, even if you aren't - this flash will serve you well without breaking the bank.

Learn more about the Yongnuo YN560 IV.

Lexar Professional 2000x 64GB SDXC UHS-II/U3 Memory Card

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When it comes to memory cards, you want something with plenty of storage space, but you also want something that has a fast read/write speed.

The Lexar Professional 2000x 64GB memory card certainly fits the bill on both fronts...

With a read transfer speed up to 2000x - or 300MB per second - you'll be able to transfer your images in record time.

It comes with an SD UHS-II reader as well, so high-speed file transfers from the card to your computer can be done quickly.

You'll have plenty of space for your stills, HD videos, and 4K videos too with 65GB of space.

It even comes with image rescue software should something go awry.

That's a lot of features packed into a tiny package!

Learn more about the Lexar Professional 2000x 64GB SDXC Memory Card.

WD 1TB My Passport External Hard Drive

wdmypassport minPart of your image storage and organization should include an external hard drive, and it's tough to beat the WD 1TB My Passport.

It's certainly got the space, and with a 4-inch form factor, it doesn't take up much room either.

That means if you use your DSLR at home or on the road, you have a huge amount of storage space right at your fingertips.

The hard drive has password protection and hardware encryption to keep your images safe, and with a WD backup option, you can back up your images to Dropbox for even more security.

Transferring files is easy and fast too, with USB 3.0 connectivity.

You get peace of mind with a 3-year limited warranty as well!

Learn more about the WD 1TB My Passport.

Delkin Devices SensorScope DSLR Camera Sensor Cleaning System

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There's no point in buying all the accessories above if you don't keep your DSLR's sensor nice and clean to produce the best possible images.

What makes Delkin Devices' kit so good is that it comes with a scope that allows you to get a good view inside your camera for easier cleaning.

With three different sizes of swabs, you have flexibility in terms of what you use to clean the sensor. There's even a Sensor Pen that has a retractable cleaning brush and a dry cleaning element.

The kit also includes a tiny vacuum with a static-free brush tip to get big chunks of debris and suction it away.

In other words, this kit has everything you need to do some sensor housecleaning in a quick, efficient, and safe manner.

Learn more about the Delkin Devices SensorScope Cleaning System.

Bonus Item: Lightbox Photography Cards

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A list of the best items for your DSLR wouldn't be complete without a tool that brings something to the table that other accessories can't: inspiration.

I know I get in a rut sometimes, and when my creative juices need a boost, the first place I turn to is Lightbox Photography Cards.

This set of 52 cards by award-winning photographer Paul Michael Kane has a photography idea for every week of the year.

Not only does that help give you idea after idea for your photos, but it also encourages you to grab your DSLR and get out there to shoot.

Just pick a card, read the challenge, grab the necessary gear, and you're all set to explore creative photography like never before.

These challenges are easy, straightforward, and fun, too!

Learn more about Lightbox Photography Cards.



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The Best Landscape Photography Focus Technique

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It seems to me that some beginner landscape photographers aren't sure how to get a sharply focused shot.

I've reached that assumption based on a lot of questions asked of me by beginners as to how to get things in focus.

I've also seen plenty of photos online that just aren't quite there in terms of focus, either.

It's a common problem, to be sure. Fortunately, there's an easy landscape photography focus technique that you can use to avoid blurry landscapes.

Learn to Manually Focus at Infinity

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I know that the word "manual" can strike fear into the hearts of many photographers because it indicates that you have all the control over your camera.

But trust me when I say that learning to manually focus your lens is not an overly complicated task, but it definitely has the potential to totally change your photos for the better.

Manually focusing your lens at infinity is a great way to get sharp photos for a number of reasons.

For starters, when you use filters for landscape photography (which you should be doing...), your camera's autofocus system might have trouble nailing the focus with the filter in front of the lens.

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Secondly, learning to manually focus your lens at infinity means that you can take clear, sharp photos in low light or even at night.

That opens up possibilities for astrophotography of the Northern Lights, the Milky Way, and other night sky scenes.

So, not only does manual focus help you get sharper images, but it can also open up new avenues of photographing landscapes. It's a win-win!

landscape photography focusing techniqueYouTube Screenshot/Benjamin Jaworskyj

Focusing at infinity is easy, too.

In the screenshot above, you can see that the lens is focused at infinity because the hashmark below the infinity sign is directly in the middle of infinity.

If you were to take a photo with that lens at that setting, everything would be in sharp focus. Test it out - you'll see!

But not every lens is exactly the same when it comes to nailing the focus at infinity.

The lens above requires the hashmark to be precisely in the middle of the infinity sign, but the lens below has a slightly different setup.

lens focusYouTube Screenshot/Benjamin Jaworskyj

Notice that there's a hashmark to the left of the infinity sign that looks like a sideways L.

On this lens, focusing at infinity requires you to align the red vertical hashmark with the sideways L-shaped hashmark to get the focus at infinity, as shown above.

And if you have a certain kind of camera and lens (specifically from Sony), the focus scale isn't actually on the lens but appears as a digital read out on the camera's LCD.

Though this is a different setup than is normal, you still get the familiar distance scale on the LCD. It's just a matter of turning the focus ring until you see the infinity symbol appear and then stop turning the focus ring.

Each of these techniques for finding the focus at infinity is reviewed in the video above by Benjamin Jaworskyj.

Learn More:

Other Tips for Getting Sharp Landscape Images

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There are other things you can do to improve the sharpness of your photos that actually have nothing to do with camera settings for landscape photography.

One thing that comes immediately to mind is to use Live View to check your focus.

When you're manually focusing your lens, it might be difficult to determine if the shot is exactly in focus by using the optical viewfinder on your camera.

However, if you switch to Live View, you can zoom in on a distant feature of the landscape and perfect the focus while zoomed in. That's an easy way to ensure things are nice and sharp!

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Another thing you can do to get sharper landscape photos is to shoot with a tripod, or at the very least, a monopod.

Even if you have the steady hands of a surgeon, taking tack-sharp photos can be difficult to do.

And if you venture into things like long exposures or nighttime photography, there's no way you can hold your camera still for the length of time that's necessary to get a well-exposed image.

tips for getting sharp landscape images

A tripod is an ideal companion for taking sharp photos of landscapes because it can give your camera the stable base it needs.

A tripod does that in a number of ways.

Take the Vanguard VEO 2 264AB shown above as a perfect example.

Not only does this tripod have ultra-strong aluminum legs to support the camera, but it also has large rubber feet to keep the legs in place.

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What's more, Vanguard has implemented an advanced twist-lock system for locking the leg sections in place. In other words, when you set this thing up, it won't go anywhere!

There's a canopy suspension loop on this tripod as well, so you can add weight (i.e., your camera bag) that acts as ballast against the wind.

With various leg positioning angles from 20-degrees to 80-degrees, this tripod also gives you rock-solid performance whether it's barely above the ground or extended to its maximum height.

vanguard veo 2 264ab

The point is that getting a sharply focused landscape photo takes a little bit of effort on your part to get the settings for landscape photography just right.

But it also requires that you have the right gear, too.

Cheap, flimsy tripods just won't give you the performance you need for the sharpest photos.

Instead, well-built tripods like the Vanguard VEO 2 264AB are the way to go.

Learn More:

Bonus Tip: Enhance Your Landscapes With a Polarizing Filter

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Of course, getting your images supremely sharp isn't your only task when you take a photo.

If you want your images to have the most impact (who doesn't?!) I highly recommend shooting with a polarizing filter attached to your lens.

Polarizing filters are great because they are incredibly versatile and benefit your photos in a variety of ways.

On the one hand, they minimize atmospheric haze, so background elements in your images appear cleaner and crisper.

On the other hand, polarizing filters also reduce glare off of water and other non-metallic surfaces, that way you can capture the beauty of the water's color as well as elements just below the surface.

firecrest polarizing filter

But polarizing filters - especially really good ones like the Formatt-Hitech Circular Polarizer shown above - offer other benefits as well.

You can enjoy improved contrast in the sky with brighter whites in the clouds and deeper blues in the atmosphere.

And since this filter has Formatt-Hitech's Firecrest anti-reflective multi-coating, you can trust that it will help you create images that have the utmost in contrast and fidelity.

The precision-milled rotating polarizer ring in which the filter is housed makes for easy and precise adjustments so that you can get the precise effect you want in your photos.

In other words, why not double-up on the detail in your photos and get them super sharp and with breathtaking color and contrast with no glare. Sounds like a winning combination to me!

Trust me...using filters like this for landscape photography is the way to go!

Learn More:



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The Most Important Filters for Landscape Photography

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If you've ever taken a photo of a landscape and thought it looked flat or lifeless or didn't like how bright the sky was compared to the foreground, you need a filter.

But which filters fix these problems?

What filter is the most essential?

These are important questions, to be sure, and I seek to answer them below.

Check out my list of four filters every landscape photographer needs, ranked in terms of which ones I think are the most important.

#1: Circular Polarizer

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The first filter you should buy for landscape photography is a circular polarizer.

There are just too many things a circular polarizer will improve in your landscape photos for you not to shoot with one on your lens.

For starters, a circular polarizer reduces glare off of non-metallic surfaces. That means when there's water in the shot, a circular polarizer helps render the water nice and clear without all that glare from the sun.

Secondly, a polarizing filter helps improve the appearance of the sky. It does so in two ways:

  • Polarizers reduce haze, giving your images the appearance of a clearer sky.
  • Polarizers increase the saturation of blue skies while also increasing the contrast with white clouds.

In other words, when you use a polarizer, not only do you get clearer skies but you get more impactful ones with clouds that pop.

All of that is highly advantageous because when you photograph a landscape in the middle of the day, you often contend with glare, haze, and skies that look flat and lifeless.

See a circular polarizer in action in the video above from Joshua Cripps.

Learn More:

#2: Graduated Neutral Density Filter

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You know how when you take a photo of a landscape and the landscape itself is extremely dark and the sky above it is extremely bright?

Yeah, don't we all...

That's a problem because though our eyes can detect the range from bright to dark in such a scene while allowing us to see the detail throughout, our cameras struggle in that situation.

Either you expose for the sky, which makes the foreground even darker, or you expose for the foreground, which makes the sky even brighter.

There are a few solutions to this problem, though, one of which is to use a graduated ND filter.

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Graduated ND filters get their name because their light-stopping power shifts from a lot at the top to very little at the bottom.

That means that it brings down the brightness of the sky while having little impact on the foreground, as seen in the image above.

With a reduced dynamic range, your camera is much more capable of getting a well-exposed image throughout.

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There are two kinds of graduated NDs - a soft edge and a hard edge.

A soft edge ND is most appropriate for situations in which there isn't a definite horizon. As seen in the image above, the filter has a very gradual shift in filtering power.

However, a hard edge ND is best for shots that do have a definite horizon, like a shot of the beach and the ocean beyond.

In other words, if the horizon is nice and flat, opt for a hard edge ND. If there's some variation in the horizon, opt for a soft edge ND.

Learn More:

#3: Reverse Neutral Density Filter

When the sun sets on the horizon and golden hour is upon you, the time is right for some breathtaking landscape shots.

The problem, of course, is that at that time of day, the sky is bright, the area just above the horizon is really bright, and the foreground is dark.

In other words, it's a nightmare for your camera, which will struggle to deal with the wide dynamic range in the scene.

That's where a reverse ND grad comes in...

Reverse ND grads like the one shown above are purpose-built for sunrises and sunsets.

That's because they're darkest in the middle where the brightest part of the sky will be, slightly less dark above that, where the sky will be, and very light on the bottom to help lighten the foreground.

In other words, it's the perfect companion to shooting sunrise and sunset photos.

These filters even come in various strengths, from 1-stops to 3-stops, so you can be sure you get the filter that works best for the shooting conditions.

Get more details on graduated and reverse ND filters in the video above by Formatt-Hitech.

Learn More:

#4: Neutral Density Filters

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Not all landscape photographers take long exposure photos, which is why I've put ND filters at the fourth spot on my list.

ND filters are must-haves if you want to extend the shutter speed to show blurry water, clouds, or other moving landscape elements.

Where a graduated ND has a coating that varies from dark to light, a traditional ND filter has the same coating throughout.

That means you get consistent light-stopping power across the entirety of the scene, as seen below.

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For example, you want to take a photo of a waterfall during the day and blur the movement of the water, an ND filter is required.

ND filters come in a variety of strengths, from just one-stop to 10-stops and beyond.

With a 1-stop filter, your shutter speed will double, from, say, 1 second to 2 seconds.

But with a 10-stop filter, your shutter speed will extend from 1 second to a whopping 15 minutes.

In other words, if you want a greater motion effect, get a darker ND filter.

Learn More:

Wrapping It Up

Bear in mind that my list of landscape filters is based on my experience and my preferences as a landscape photographer. You might find that different filters are more important for the work you do.

But in the end, each of the filters outlined above offers landscape photographers greater leeway regarding how landscapes can be photographed.

If you really want to take your landscape photography to the next level, investing in high-quality filters is certainly one way to do it!

Check out one photographer's experience using a 16-stop ND filter from Formatt-Hitech in the video above by Brendan van Son.



We Recommend


These 10 Landscape Photography Tips Will Immediately Improve Your Images

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If I were a betting man, I'd say that landscapes are the most popular subject for photographers.

I'm in that group - I seldom photograph anything but landscapes.

I love shooting landscapes, and if you're reading this article, it's safe to assume that you do as well.

I'm also assuming that if you're reading this article that you're looking for some surefire ways to improve your landscape photos.

You're in the right place!

In the video above, Kai W offers up 10 top landscape photography tips that have the ability to immediately impact your images.

Have a look at what he has to say, and for a more detailed discussion of my three favorite tips, read on below.

It's Not Just About the Main Subject

classic western american country barn picture id638087108

You need a strong, primary subject in your photos to have the maximum impact.

But it's not just about that strong subject.

Instead, think about your landscape photos as being your opportunity to take viewers on a journey.

To do that, your photos need to have foreground interest.

rocky beach in colors picture id669857298

Without foreground interest, some landscape photos can look empty and bland.

But by adding textures, shapes, leading lines, and other elements into the foreground, you can overcome that problem.

Take the image above as a perfect example of this - though the sunset is the primary subject, the inclusion of the rocks in the foreground is what really sets this photo off.

Notice all the variations of dark colors the rocks provide, as well as interesting textures to capture the eye. They even form leading lines to direct our eyes to the sunset!

In short, foreground interest can be used not only to tell a more complete story about the landscape, but it can also help connect the foreground to the background of the shot.

Learn More:

You Need the Right Gear

51u5hGh226L. SL1000

A lot of photographers (myself included) talk about how the most important factor in getting a top-notch shot is you and not your gear.

However, though that might be the case, it still really helps a lot if you bring along some gear that will make better shots more likely.

This includes a solid tripod, preferably with features like a center column hook, integrated bubble level, and metal foot spikes that help you stabilize the tripod, even on rough terrain.

The Sirui W-1004 shown above and below fits the bill beautifully.

61BOBisvcLL. SL1000

Not only does this tripod have the features I listed above, but it also has a waterproof design for those days when it's rainy or snowy out.

Additionally, this tripod has a built-in monopod so when you need to work fast and light, you've still got something to give your camera the stability it needs to get a crisp, sharp photo.

With automatic leg locks, variable leg lock positions, and split center column, tripods like this one give you everything you need to make better landscape photos more likely.

Another critical piece of kit you need to maximize your ability to get breathtaking landscape photos is a set of good filters.

Filters fell out of vogue a few years back with many photographers because they thought "why can't I use filters in Photoshop?"

Though you can mimic the effect that filters have on your images by using Photoshop, if you ask me, it's just not as good of quality as you can get when you use real filters in the field.

There are several must-have filters for landscape photographers.

First, you need a polarizing filter, which, among other things, reduces glare off non-metallic surfaces like water, as shown above.

Next, you need a graduated neutral density filter, which is dark on the top and light on the bottom. This helps reduce the brightness of the sky while leaving the darker landscape alone. The result is an image that has a much more even look to it and a controlled dynamic range.

Lastly, a neutral density filter is a must-have if you want to take on long exposure photography during the day.

These filters have a consistent level of light-blocking power, which enables you to extend your shutter speed to blur movement of features like rivers and clouds.

Learn More:

Don't Make the f/22 Mistake

moraine lake banff national park canada picture id916463836

Sure, f/22 is the aperture that gets you the largest depth of field, all else being equal.

But there's a problem with shooting at such a small aperture - diffraction.

No lens is its sharpest or cleanest at its smallest or largest aperture. So even though f/22 is often recommended for landscapes, it's actually doing your images a disservice because the diffraction that occurs softens your image.

As Kai points out in the video, f/16 is a better choice because it still gives you loads of depth of field, but without all the issues of diffraction that occur at f/22.

I'd even say to try f/11 or even f/8 for even sharper results.

Either way, experiment with the aperture, get the appropriate gear, find ways to incorporate foreground interest, and follow Kai's other valuable tips, and you'll have a much better chance of getting the type of landscape photos you want.

Learn More:



We Recommend


These Long Exposure Mistakes are Preventing You From Taking Awesome Photos

long exposure mistakesImage Credit: miroslav_1 via iStock

Looking at breathtaking long exposures like the one above, you can't help but be mesmerized.

The alteration of time as we perceive it can turn any old scene into something much more visually impactful.

The key, of course, is understanding what to do - and what not to do - to get a great long exposure photograph.

Let's explore a few long exposure mistakes you need to avoid.

Long Exposure Mistake #1: Using Low-Quality Filters

51bzZYpVpRL. SL1200

One of the best ways of getting the long shutter speeds you need to blur movement is to use a neutral density filter.

Neutral density filters like the 6-stop Formatt-Hitech ND Filter shown above, have a consistent level of filtering throughout the glass to block light from entering the lens.

These filters come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and have different filtering power as well.

For example, compare the 6-stop filter above with the 1-stop filter below. Naturally, the darker the filter, the more light that's blocked out and the longer the shutter speed can be.

51FR7dinVTL. SL1200

The whole point of a neutral density filter is to reduce light without impacting the colors of the scene.

If you utilize high-quality filters like those from Formatt-Hitech, you'll get just that - beautiful colors and gorgeously blurred movement.

However, cheap filters often change the colors of the shot, which means you'll either have a degraded image or you'll have to spend more time in post-processing trying to fix the problem.

The moral of the story is that since the filter goes in front of your lens, you want to get the best filter you can afford.

After all, what's the point of having a nice camera and a solid lens if you just cover it with a cheap, poorly made filter?!

Learn More:

Long Exposure Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Aperture

landscape in iceland with mount kirkjufell at sunset picture id955979910Image Credit: borchee via iStock

In order to extend the shutter speed to the appropriate time you need to blur movement, you have to decrease how much light enters the lens.

Of course, to do that, you have to use a smaller aperture.

But there is such a thing as using too small of an aperture...

Most lenses have an aperture range that goes to f/22, which is a really, really small aperture.

The problem, though, is that at f/22, most lenses - even very expensive ones - show signs of diffraction, which reduces the sharpness of the image.

dog slaughter falls picture id540111856Image Credit: alexeys via iStock

A better method is to shoot in the sweet spot of your lens.

Finding the sweet spot is easy, but it's generally somewhere between f/8 and f/11.

Doing so will ensure you get the sharpest image and also have good depth of field.

And since these apertures are middle-of-the-road, they also help limit the amount of light entering the lens to facilitate those longer shutter speeds that you need.

Long Exposure Mistake #3: Using Image Stabilization

closeup modern photo lens with auto focus and image stabilization picture id1039473456Image Credit: IUshakovsky via iStock

Though it might seem prudent to use image stabilization to reduce movement while the shutter is open for a long exposure, it's actually a primary cause of poor long exposure images.

The reason for this is that with such long exposures, your camera and lens need to be on a tripod for stability.

When you use image stabilization for a camera that's on a tripod, the image stabilization system might still try to compensate for movement.

Ironically, that means that the stabilization system actually causes vibration, thereby making the shot less sharp.

Having your camera on a good, solid tripod and using a camera remote is all the stabilization you need for long exposures, so turn image stabilization off!

Learn More:

Long Exposure Mistake #4: Not Accounting for the Wind

people under the strong wind picture id665410374Image Credit: castenoid via iStock 

When taking a long exposure, the wind can wreak havoc with your results in a couple of different ways.

First, if there are elements in the foreground that move in the wind (i.e., plants), they will be blurry due to their movement during the exposure.

You can't exactly stop the wind, so adjusting your composition to move those elements deeper into the shot will lessen the impact of that unwanted movement.

Secondly, even with a sturdy tripod, the wind can still cause the camera to vibrate.

There are a number of things you can do to mitigate this problem.

long exposure tipsImage Credit: RugliG via iStock 

For starters, if you have a lens hood on your lens, remove it. Do the same with your camera's strap. Both of these accessories can catch the wind and cause unwanted movements.

Next, avoid extending the center column of your tripod as much as possible. Raising the center column brings the tripod's center of gravity upward as well, which makes it less stable.

Finally, add additional weight to your tripod if possible.

Many tripods have center column hooks specifically for this purpose. Hang your camera bag, fill a tote with rocks or dirt - anything you can do to help weigh the tripod down will help you get better results.

If you adhere to these quick tips, I think you'll find that the quality of your long exposures is increased!



We Recommend


These Products and Services are Innovating Photography as We Know It

innovative photography productsImage Credit: bobakphoto via iStock

To say that photography has changed a lot over the last few years would be a huge understatement.

I mean, I'm not all that old, and not only did I learn photography using a film camera and a dark room, but it wasn't until my senior year of high school that I saw a digital camera in person, let alone used one.

Indeed, photography is a field that's constantly changing, and the innovations that photography companies are making are, in a word, incredible.

That being the case, I thought it would be fun to look at a few companies that have products and services that are thrusting photography into the future.

Excire Search & Excire Search Pro

One aspect of photography that's long-needed some innovation is in the post-processing space, and Excire has led the charge to do so.

Their Search and Search Pro AI Plugins for Lightroom are a breath of fresh air that makes organizing and finding your images a veritable breeze.

Instead of uploading your photos to Lightroom and having to tag all your photos yourself, Excire's plugins do that work for you.

For example, Excire Search has 125 keywords that allow you to organize your photos based on common subjects, like "mountain" as well as common features, like the predominant color in the shot.

That means that if you want to search your archives for a photo that has predominantly orange tones that also has a mountain in it, Excire Search will find it. Talk about innovative!

Excire Search Pro steps things up a bit further with over 500 keywords (and counting!) that can be added to your Lightroom catalog.

That means that your jaw-dropping photo of a sunset at the beach will automatically be tagged with "sunset," "beach," "orange," and so forth. Just think of all the time you'll save not having to manually tag all of those things!

Excire Search Pro also gives you the power to transfer keywords to photos already in your library, so those thousands of old images you have can be organized and easily searched.

On top of it all, the folks at Excire want to pay it forward, which is why they set aside a portion of the sales from Excire Search Pro to support non-profit organizations in the U.S. Not bad, right?

As if that's not enough, Excire was just named the Best Software Plugin by the Lucie Technical Awards. If that's not a great endorsement of this innovative product, I don't know what is!

Learn More:

Nikon Z7

Nikon might've been late to the full frame mirrorless party, but it seems to me that they more than made up for it with the Z7.

Introduced earlier this year, the Z7 finally brings Nikon into the mirrorless war in a meaningful way.

Just check out these specs:

  • Backside-illuminated 45.7-megapixel full frame CMOS sensor
  • EXPEED 6 image processing
  • 9fps continuous shooting speed
  • ISO range of 64-25600; expandable to 32-102400
  • 493-point autofocus system
  • 5-axis sensor-based image stabilization
  • 3.2-inch tilting, touch-enabled LCD with 2.1 million dots
  • OLED electronic viewfinder with 3.69 million dots and 0.80x magnification

As if those flagship specs aren't enough, the fact that all of that is crammed into a small, lightweight (and beautiful) mirrorless body is just a bonus.

Additionally, if this is what Nikon put out on its first mirrorless camera, then just imagine what the future holds. Talk about exciting!

For more details about the Nikon Z7, read this in-depth review.

Formatt-Hitech 100mm Firecrest Ultra Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition Master Filter Kit

hitech ken kaminesky 1

Formatt-Hitech makes some of the most capable lens filters on the market, but their Firecrest Ultra filters are next-level good.

And what's so great about these filters is that you can get them in kits specifically designed for certain types of photography.

Take the Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition Master Filter Kit as a prime example...

Not only do you get three neutral density filters (a 3-stip, 6-stop, and 10-stop), but you also get two soft-edge ND grads (a 2-stop and a 3-stop).

hitech ken kaminesky

That means that no matter if you prefer to shoot traditional landscapes or long exposures, architecture or cityscapes, you'll have the filters you need to get the job done.

What's more, since these filters are crafted to have the utmost clarity and the lowest possible reflectivity, you get superb results each time.

That's thanks to Formatt-Hitech's innovative secondary lap and polish process that ensures flatness and consistency for improved image quality.

This particular kit also comes with a filter holder, adapter or step rings, and a polarizing filter as well. It's the complete package for photographers that want to step up their game to produce the best-quality images possible.

Learn More:

SIRUI SR-Series Tripods

There's a ton of great tripods out there for photographers of all types, but if you're a professional photographer, SIRUI's new SR-Series of tripods is certainly worth a look.

I've used Sirui tripods for years now, and I can say that they are among the best I've ever had.

Their SR-Series is no exception, with eye-popping features to back up the legendary SIRUI name.

Consider these specifications:

  • 55-pound weight capacity
  • Maximum height of 80 inches with optional 2-stage center column
  • 1/2-turn twist leg lock system
  • 3-position leg angle mechanism
  • Flat top plate with 3/8-inch mounting screw
  • Integrated 75mm bowl

And that's just the start!

There are three models in the SR-series, each seemingly better than the last.

The SR-3204 is a particular favorite of mine because it's made of lightweight carbon fiber, has four leg sections, an integrated bubble level, anti-slip warmers, and rubber and stainless steel spiked feet.

This tripod also compacts down to 21.4-inches, that way you can carry it more easily.

SIRUI has really thought of everything with these tripods, and the price is certainly worth admission!

Read an in-depth review of the SIRUI SR-Series tripods.

Acratech GP Ball Head

acratech gp 1

Of course, a great tripod needs a great ball head, and if you ask me, Acratech makes the best ball heads in the business.

One of the reasons why Acratech is so popular is because they manage to keep innovating their products as the years go by.

The GP Ball Head is no exception...

This rig is incredibly versatile, with the capability of being used as a gimbal, a leveler, and for smooth panning shots, too.

acratech gp 2

The GP will hold a whopping 25 pounds, so even if you've got a big DSLR and a big lens, you needn't worry about the GP's ability to give you the best performance.

There's an integrated bullseye level for helping you remain parallel with the horizon, a double-speed knob, and a quick-release clamp for when time is of the essence.

Acratech has also included a detent pin to keep the plate and your camera in one place.

All that in a package that weighs just one pound!

Learn More:

Click Props Backdrops

You might be wondering how photography backdrops can be updated or innovated, but you might be surprised.

These are heavy duty, wrinkle free, matte finish, walk-on with Stiletto heels, get ‘em dirty (like REALLY DIRTY), wipe-down, mop-up, light weight, take ‘em anywhere VINYL Backdrops!

click props heels

In the right hands, plain old backdrops can be turned into an innovative and exciting segment of the photography industry, and that's exactly what Click Props Backdrops is doing.

For starters, they have an incredible array of designs - hundreds in fact - so no matter the look you're trying to achieve, they've got a backdrop for you.

And don't think that the only advantage of buying a Click Props Backdrop is in the selection...

Instead, Click Props Backdrops has managed to meet high-quality standards while keeping their prices low.

That means that you can get a high-quality, realistic-looking backdrop that's durable, hangs beautifully, and is easy to clean, all without breaking the bank.

The 550gsm vinyl will hold up against the daily uses and abuses of portrait photography while the 12 reinforced grommets that line the top of the backdrop ensure that it hangs flat. Not into grommets? Use your clamps, put them on a roller or try their easy to use magnet system, Magnefix!

Is making great products innovative? Not necessarily. But if you want to be on the forefront of portrait photography, you better take a good, hard look at Click Props Backdrops!

Learn more about Click Props Backdrops.

Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo

Photo by Brandon Burk

Not a lot of photography products can claim that they can completely change how you approach taking photos, but the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo sure can.

I've had a Holdfast MoneyMaker Dual Camera Harness for several years now, and it is a fantastic product. My only complaint is that it can't be used with just one camera.

Well, Holdfast solved that problem in their usual fine-crafted way with the single-camera MoneyMaker Solo.

Not only is this thing gorgeously made out of a single full-grain leather hide, but it's also incredibly functional, too.

Photo by Brandon Burk

The stabilizer strap keeps the Solo right where you want it, while the big, contoured shoulder pad keeps fatigue at bay.

The best part of this strap, though, is the innovative Belt Anchor, which keeps your camera in the same position next to your body no matter if you're standing, sitting, stooping, or running around like a wild person.

Even better, the Belt Anchor can be detached and reattached with one hand, so you can keep your camera safe without worrying about missing a shot.

That's not a bad combination of features if you ask me!

Learn More:

Peak Design Travel Line 45L Camera Bag

The Travel Line 45L Camera Bag is not any old camera bag. In fact, I'm not sure if calling it a camera bag will suffice. It's more of a complete travel system.

I mean, one look at the graphic above, and you begin to get a feel for how photographers will carry their gear in the future.

Peak Design has thought of everything, from the pickpocket-resistant zippers to the weatherproofing from top to bottom. The shell was even made in an environmentally friendly manner. Nice!

There's tons of handles on this thing, that way you can pick it up no matter which end is up.

The shoulder straps and waist belt are all nicely padded, and they all stow away in case you're checking your bag. After all, you don't want your straps getting torn off!

Inside is a photographer's dream with a wide-mouth opening so you can actually see everything inside the bag.

There's a dedicated organization panel to keep all your gear nice and neat, too.

Add in an expansion zipper that adds 10 liters of extra space, dual side-access panels for easy gear retrieval, and a variety of pouches and cubes to keep your gear safe and organized, and you have the makings for a bag that seems like it's from 3018, not 2018!

Get all the specs on the Peak Design Travel Line 45L here.

CanvasHQ 

canvashq 1

When I think of ways to upgrade one's photography experience, I immediately think of CanvasHQ.

I've been a customer of these guys for a good, long while now, and that's because they have proven to be a reliable source of high-quality canvas prints.

What I appreciate the most about CanvasHQ is their commitment to the process of printing and finding ways to improve upon it.

And if you ask me, they have certainly done so.

canvashq 2

CanvasHQ uses only the highest-quality materials, from commercial-grade inks to high-end fine-art canvas to kiln-dried, handmade frames. I mean, have a look at my most recent purchase from these guys and tell me that the quality isn't top-notch!

Apart from the quality, you can't dismiss the fact that the CanvasHQ crew has excellent customer service. If you have a question, a real-life human will answer the phone. If you aren't in love with your print, CanvasHQ will make it again or refund your money within 30 days of purchase.

On top of that, they have lightning-fast turnaround times - I often get my prints within three days of my order.

If that's not bringing innovation to photography, I don't know what is!

Learn More:

iMovR Lander Treadmill Desk

When talking about innovation in the photography industry, that discussion cannot be complete without mentioning iMovR.

This is a company that's reinventing how photographers, other creatives, and all workers in general can get their daily tasks done.

I have their Lander Treadmill Desk, and I can tell you with the utmost confidence that getting that desk has been one of the best decisions I've ever made.

The fact that it allows me to tackle my daily activities while sitting, standing or walking on a treadmill has allowed me to stave off negative effects like lower back pain while also getting in a little exercise over the course of the day.

Aside from the health benefits you get from being able to work in various positions, iMovR offers a multitude of choices that allows you to customize your desk.

Choose from 16 different colors for the desktop, three different colors for the base, and various widths that range from 41-inches to 83-inches.

The desk comes equipped with a smooth electric lift that raises and lowers the desk, and you can program four favorite heights into the control paddle for ease of use. You can even raise or lower the desk using a smartphone app!

It even comes with a health coach to remind you when it's time to change position.

In a word, this desk is incredible. Click here for a detailed review of my experience with the iMovR Lander Treadmill Desk.



We Recommend


Top 10 Gifts for Photographers Under $1,000 - 2018 Edition

top gifts for photographers under 1000Image Credit: eclipse_images via iStock

Need gift ideas for photographers in your life?

Look no further!

We're in a bit of a golden age of photography, with cameras, lenses, and photography accessories that enable us to take better photos than ever before.

And it's no secret that a lot of photography gear is expensive...

But you might be surprised at what you can get with a budget of $1,000 or less.

Here's some of the best gifts for photographers for 2018.

Lensfinder

Let’s face it - photography gear can be expensive. Really expensive.

That’s a problem year-round, but when you’re holiday shopping and have tons of gifts to buy, it’s even more difficult to justify getting your loved one the $1,000 lens that they really want.

Fortunately, Lensfinder can help in more ways than one.

On the one hand, you can find great deals on pre-owned camera lenses at Lensfinder. 

That means that you can get a truly top-notch lens for the photographer in your life but do so without busting your budget. It’s a win-win!

On the other hand, if you have some old lenses that you don’t use anymore, you can list them for sale on Lensfinder. When the lens sells, you can use it for holiday spending money for the photographer in your life. 

Image Credit: xxmmxx via iStock

The best part? You can list your lenses for sale for free. 

There’s only a transaction fee (just 3.99%) when the lens sells (with a maximum fee of $500). If your lens doesn’t sell, there’s no charge at all!

And for peace of mind, the Lensfinder platform has advanced fraud filtering for both buyers and sellers as well as mediation services in the event that there’s a problem.

Payments are made and received via PayPal, so you can rest easy knowing that the transaction is safe and secure.

In other words, Lensfinder is the ideal solution for your holiday shopping needs. Either use it to find a loved one a killer lens or use it to sell old gear to pad your pockets for holiday spending!

Learn more about Lensfinder

Holdfast Roamographer

holdfast roamographer bag

With a $1,000 holiday budget, you can give the photographer on your list a gift that is impeccably designed, highly functional, and way under budget, too. 

The Holdfast Roamographer bag is one of the finest leather camera bags on the market. It offers gorgeous aesthetics with an American Bison leather exterior that’s beautiful and rugged at the same time.

Not only will this leather stand up to the elements and age with grace, but it’s also weather resistant so you can be sure the contents of the bag remain safe and dry.

holdfast moneymaker original 2

It’s a big bag and can carry lots of gear, but carrying it is a breeze with an adjustable shoulder strap with a shearling-lined shoulder pad for comfort.

Or, if you prefer, you can carry the Roamographer using the Holdfast MoneyMaker for even more functionality and comfort, as seen above.

holdfast roamographer interior

The inside of the bag must be mentioned as well. 

The removable camera insert means that no matter how much or how little gear your favorite photographer needs to carry, the Roamographer will help them keep it organized.

The padded insert has cubbies specifically for cameras, lenses, flashes, and other accessories, while there’s interior and exterior pockets for other goodies like a phone, car keys, and a tablet.

The insert is removable, too, so on weekends when they’re not on the job, the photographer on your list can use this as a weekend bag, too. 

That makes the Holdfast Roamographer a beautiful, functional, and multi-purpose bag!

Learn more about the Holdfast Roamographer

GDU O2 Drone

gdu 02

What’s so great about the GDU O2 drone is that it’s designed to be used by pilots of all experience levels. For beginners, it’s easy to use and extremely portable. The obstacle avoidance system will assist in preventing crashes, and the vision positioning system allows the drone to maintain complete stability whether flying indoors or out. That makes this the ideal drone with which to learn about flying. 

Beginners and more advanced pilots alike will appreciate the host of smart features that the O2 has. That includes gesture recognition for taking photos and videos, as well as burst shooting, time-lapse shooting, slow-motion shooting, and selfie mode. The three-axis stable video capture feature allows you to take gorgeous panning 4K videos as well. 

gdu 02 2 

There are multiple flight modes, too. Instruct the drone to fly in a circle around you, take off like a rocket, or follow you as you walk, hike, ride your bike, or otherwise move around. No matter which mode the O2 is flying in, it can use its return to home function to land in virtually the exact same spot from which it took off. 

The O2 also comes with a smartphone app to make using this drone even easier. Connect to your drone to see what it sees on your smartphone screen. You can also fly the drone with your phone. Add in built-in editing and sharing functions, and you have the makings of a total drone experience, from flying to taking photos and videos to editing and sharing your work quickly and easily online.

Learn more about the GDU O2 Drone

Meural

meural

If you’ve got someone on your holiday shopping list that has everything, the Meural Canvas is the ideal gift for them.

Looking a the same old painting or photograph over and over again is so 20th Century…

With a Meural Canvas, your loved one can view their favorite artwork from Meural’s curated library or upload their own images to enjoy. Whichever is the case, artwork is displayed instantly for them to enjoy. 

Better still, they can control their Meural Canvas via the web, the Meural App, or with gesture control. It’s the easiest way to enjoy art! 

meural canvas app

The Meural Canvas brings artwork to life by using TrueArt Technology, a proprietary blend of hardware, firmware, and software that renders images in beautiful detail and texture. To say that the Meural Canvas makes artwork look lifelike is an understatement!

This canvas looks great in any setting, too, with different sizes, frame types, and frame colors to suit any decor. It can even detect if it’s hanging on a vertical or horizontal plane, and will automatically adjust its display accordingly. There’s also a built-in light sensor so it will automatically increase or decrease the brightness of its display to suit the surroundings.

On top of all that, Meural gives 60 percent of its earnings to artists on their platform, so not only do they have an awesome product, but they also give back. It’s a win-win!

Learn more about the Meural Canvas

Canon M50

As mirrorless cameras continue to grow in popularity, it only makes sense that you consider giving your favorite photographer a mirrorless camera this year. 

Whether a photographer is a beginner and needs a new camera, an enthusiast that wants a capable mirrorless camera for everyday shooting, or a professional that wants to add a small mirrorless camera to their kit to serve as a second or third shooting option, the Canon M50 fits the bill.

The M50 is outfitted with a 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that offers surprisingly good image quality at this price point.

This camera also offers Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS technology, which, among other things, offers superior focus tracking performance and a wider area of focus coverage when photographing moving subjects.

Additionally, the M50 features 99 autofocus points with most EF-M lenses while some EF-M lenses offer even more - 143 AF points, to be exact. Not only that, but the M50 sports excellent low-light autofocus capabilities, so even when shooting in less-than-ideal lighting, this camera’s autofocus system will perform well. 

This camera has plenty of features that make it easy to use, too.

The DIGIC 8 processor makes quick work of processing image data while the 1.04-million dot LCD is fully articulating for easier viewing when shooting in live view. It’s also touch-enabled for quick work of navigating the camera’s menu system. 

The 2.36-million dot OLED electronic viewfinder gives photographers a clear, crisp view of what they’re photographing while the built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth make sharing photos and connecting to other devices a breeze, too.

For video enthusiasts, the M50 offers HD video shooting at 1080/60p and 720/120p. You can also shoot in 4K UHD at 24p.

And if the photographer on your list already has Canon lenses, they can be used with the M50 with an adaptor. That means they don’t have to invest in new glass if they don’t want to, and simply use their EF and EF-S lenses.

All of those bells, whistles, and features make this a highly capable entry-level or enthusiast camera. If you want to give the gift of a more capable camera, the Canon M50 is it! 

Best of all, Paul’s Photo has this camera in stock and for a great price so you can give an awesome gift without busting your budget! 

Learn more about the Canon EOS M50

NiSi 100mm System V5-Pro Advance Filter Kit

51 8edg8aL. SL1001

There's a gear mantra to live by, and that's that the lens you use is more important than the camera.

Good glass can make or break your photos, and if you spend the money on good glass, you definitely want good filters in front of it.

That's why NiSi's 100mm System Advance Filter Kit is such a great gift idea for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

This kit is loaded for bear and includes:

  • 1 x NiSi V5 PRO Holder includes 67mm 72mm 77mm Adaptor Rings+82mm Main Adapter+86mm Pro CPL
  • 1 x NiSi Glass 100x150mm Multi-coated Soft 0.9 (3-stop) +1 x Reverse 0.9 (3-stop) Graduated ND Filter
  • 1 x NiSi Glass 100x100mm Nano Multicoated Filter IR ND 0.9(3-Stop) Filter + 1 x IR ND 1.8 (6-Stop) Filter + 1 x IR ND 3.0 (10-Stop) Filter
  • 1 x NiSi All in One Case(can hold V5 or V5 PRO, adaptor rings and 8pcs filters at most)
  • 1 x V5 Lens Cap + 1 x Square Filter Cleaning Eraser + 1 x Cleaning Cloth+ 1 x Air blower

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I can personally attest to this filter system as being one of the very best that I've ever owned.

The filters expand the creative abilities of your camera, allowing you to create gorgeous long exposures and manage difficult dynamic range while giving you the highest color and contrast fidelity with minimal aberrations.

Not only that, but the filters and filter holder are beautifully designed and made of high-quality, durable materials, so your favorite photographer can get the shots they want without worrying about whether their filters are going to make it back home.

Having lens filters is a must for landscape photographers. Get the landscape photographer on your shopping list the best filters money can buy!

Learn more about the Nisi 100mm System V5-Pro Advance Filter Kit 

Synology DiskStation DS1817+

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Photographers can never have enough storage space for all their images and other files, which is why we're including the Synology DiskStation on our list.

This expandable storage device can store up to 60TB of data. Start small with 12TB and expand as your needs grow.

The unit has upgradable memory, a PCIe slot to install a 10GbE network card for lightning-fast data transmission, and remote access, so your favorite photographer can access their files from any device anywhere in the world.

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Perhaps even better, this rig allows for backing up all computers, servers, and other devices, that way all data is backed up and safe from ransomware, viruses, hacking, and human errors.

The DiskStation can be backed up to a cloud service or offsite location as well, giving you yet another layer of data protection.

While this might be overkill for some photographers, for professionals that have tens of thousands of images and other files, the Synology DiskStation can be a God-send.

Learn more about the Synology DiskStation DS1817+

Pre-Owned Sony A6500 From MPB

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I've been a Nikon shooter since the beginning, but a few years ago I picked up a Sony A6300 and have loved every minute of using it.

It's brother, the Sony A6500, is a fantastic camera as well, and can be found for under $1,000 if you buy pre-owned.

This mirrorless APS-C camera has a 24.2-megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor, a BIONZ X image processor, and an ISO range that extends to 51200.

It can shoot 4K video, has a continuous shooting speed of 11fps, and has 5-axis SteadyShot image stabilization, which helps minimize camera shake when working at slower shutter speeds.

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Something I love about my Sony is how small and lightweight it is, and both of those factors apply in this situation as well.

This camera weighs just 16 ounces (without a lens attached), so you can easily take it for a day of shooting or on a long trip and never be in a situation in which you feel like your camera is drawing tons of attention.

What will draw attention, though, is the fact that this camera has an incredible 425-point phase-detection autofocus system that has 169 area contrast detection autofocus points.

What that means is that this camera performs unbelievably well when it comes to rapid and precise focusing.

If you have a photographer on your list that's been thinking about upgrading their camera, this is an ideal choice!

Learn more about the Sony A6500

Microsoft Surface Pro 4

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I have a number of Microsoft Surface products, and as an Apple guy, I was skeptical when I got my first Surface.

But I quickly found that my reservations were misplaced because the Surface lineup is fantastic from top to bottom.

I particularly like the Surface Pro 4 because I don't always need a full-blown laptop to get done what needs to get done.

Yet, the Surface pro could easily replace a laptop by adding the optional keyboard and relying on the devices excellent suite of hardware.

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This particular model has a 128GB hard drive, 4GB of ram, and an Intel Core i5 processor.

While those specs aren't going to be enough to be a primary computer for a photographer, for daily tasks like posting on social media, doing billing, emailing clients, and so forth, this little Surface will be all you need.

I love the PixelSense touchscreen display, especially when I'm slumming it on the couch and catching up on work as I watch TV.

And when I need to be a little more precise than with my big, clumsy fingers, the Surface Pen is ideal for getting the job done.

If you want to give the gift of technology this holiday season, try giving a Surface Pro 4! They're even on sale at the moment, so you can snag one for well under $1,000.

Learn more about the Microsoft Surface Pro 4

Surui SR-3204

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Sirui has been making excellent tripods for years now, but their latest SR-series tripods are likely the best they've ever made.

The Sirui SR-3204 is a four-section tripod that extends from just 4.7-inches above the ground to 59-inches.

And all that height compacts into just over 21-inches, that way you have the height you need without having a large, bulky tripod to carry around.

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Better still, the SR-3204 can hold up to 55-pounds of gear, a three-position leg angle mechanism for quick deployment of the tripod, and easy-to-use twist leg locks that also facilitate quick setup.

This tripod also has an integrated bubble level, a flat top plate with 3/8-inch mounting screw, and an integrated 1/4-inch socket on the spider for adding accessories.

In other words, this is a capable, functional, and durable tripod that will last the photographer on your list for years and years to come!

Learn more about the Sirui SR-3204 tripod

Formatt-Hitech 100mm Firecrest Ultra Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition Master Filter Kit

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Yet another top gift idea for photographers is the Formatt-Hitech 100mm Firecrest Ultra Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition Master Filter Kit.

This kit comes with everything a photographer needs to capture gorgeous and breathtaking landscapes, cityscape, and long exposures, just to name a few.

Included in this bundle are several ND Filters (ND 0.9, 1.8, and 3.0), a graduated ND 0.6, a graduated ND 0.9, and an UltraSlim circular polarizer.

On top of that, the kit includes a 100mm filter holder and adapter and step-up rings, as well as filter pouches, a holder case, and a Ken kaminesky booklet.

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What sets these filters apart from the rest is the lap and polish technique that makes them perfectly flat with consistent filtering power to enhance images.

What's more, the Firecrest Ultra line of filters have incredible clarity as well as lower reflectivity than other filters.

This makes them a prime choice for photographers that wish to enhance their photos!

Learn more about the Formatt-Hitech 100mm Firecrest Ultra Ken Kaminesky Signature Edition Master Filter Kit 

Bonus Gift Idea: Formatt-Hitech 100mm Firecrest Ultra Elia Locardi Signature Edition Travel Filter Kit

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If the photographer on your list is more of a travel photographer, then the Elia Locardi Signature Edition Travel Filter Kit by Formatt-Hitech is a great choice.

This kit includes a variety of filters and related gear that will make the task of travel photography easier and more productive.

That includes a Firecrest Ultra ND 1.2 filter, a Firecrest Ultra ND 3.0 filter, a Firecrest Ultra Graduated ND 0.9 filter, a Firecrest 82mm UltraSlim Circular Polarizing Filter, and a 100mm filter holder as well.

Additionally, the kit comes with adapter rings, step-up rings, filter pouches, a holder case, and a booklet from Elia Locardi to provide your favorite photographer with a few tips and inspiration for their photos.

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Like the Ken Kaminesky Kit describes earlier, this kit's filters are manufactured to the highest of specifications so photographers get the best possible results.

With unmatched clarity and sharpness, these filters won't get in the way of getting the shot, but will instead enhance photos with gorgeous detail.

Between the options of creating long exposures with the included ND filter, creating better-exposed images with the included graduated ND filter, and controlling glare, haze, and contrast with the included polarizing filter, this kit gives any photographer all the options they need to improve their photos.

Learn more about the Formatt-Hitech 100mm Firecrest Ultra Elia Locardi Signature Edition Travel Filter Kit

Promaster Unplugged TTL400

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Shooting serious outdoor portraits requires that photographers have artificial lighting.

And while learning how to utilize artificial lighting can be tough, finding excellent lighting to give to a photographer this holiday is a breeze!

The Promaster Unplugged TTL400 is the ideal lighting solution for breathtaking outdoor portraits for a variety of reasons, not the least of which it's battery-operated, so your favorite photographer won't have to be bogged down by the availability of power.

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This high-powered strobe light uses a camera's TTL system to create beautiful light that can be finely-tuned by photographers for a specific look.

This light offers TTL control with exposure compensation, multi-flash mode, high-speed sync, and manual mode, too.

There's 15 channels with 99 IDs, A, B, and C groups with ratio control, an audible alarm function, and FEB flash exposure bracketing mode as well.

In other words, the photographer on your list will have all the features and options they need to get the highest-quality outdoor portraits possible!

Just be sure to include the right trigger that correlates with the camera system being used, like Canon or Nikon, to complete this awesome gift idea!

Learn more about the Promaster Unplugged TTL400



We Recommend


Top 10 Gifts for Photographers Under $100 - 2017 Edition

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The great thing about shopping for a photographer is that there is no lack of awesome gear from which to choose.

From camera bags to tripods, camera remotes to photo prints, you can find just about anything for any photographer.

Better still, there's a wide selection of gifts for photographers that come in with a price under $100.

Here's a list of ten of the best photography gifts you can find with a budget of $100.

Vanguard ALTA Rise 43 Sling Bag

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For the photographer on your holiday shopping list that wants a versatile bag that can carry a ton of gear, the ALTA Rise 43 Sling Bag should be on your radar.

Built to hold a professional DSLR body, 4-5 lenses, a flash and other photography accessories as well as a tablet or small laptop, this bag has plenty of space for all of your favorite photographer’s necessities.

Carrying the bag is a breeze with its Air System back, padded sling strap, and securing strap to keep the load evenly distributed on the body. The bag is protected with padding all the way around, too, so gear will be safe from bumps and bruises along the way.

When it’s time to take a photo, this bag has quick access with side zippers that make reaching gear incredibly easy. The brightly colored interior further makes for ease of use, as your favorite photographer won’t have to dig around in a dark bag to find what they need. And since it’s a sling bag, it’s quick and easy to take on and off, too.

In short, this bag is feature-rich, comfortable to carry, and priced right at under $100!

Learn more about the Vanguard ALTA Rise 43 Sling Bag.

Syrp Product Turntable

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If you’ve got someone on your holiday list this year that’s got a thing for product photography, there’s no better gift to give them than Syrp’s Product Turntable.

The Product Turntable allows you to automate the process of product photography. Paired with the Syrp Genie Mini, the Product Turntable gives you the ability to rotate products to create incredibly smooth rotating video and even interactive 360-degree images of products, too.

And since you use the Product Turntable with the Genie Mini, that means you can use your smartphone to control the turntable via the Genie Mini app.

The Product Turntable comes with all sorts of goodies, too, including an 8-inch turntable platform, black and white cardboard background disks, and a downloadable template so you can make your own DIY mounting setup.

If that doesn’t make your loved one a product photography genius, I don’t know what will!

Learn more about the Syrp Product Turntable.

Sirui 3T-35 Aluminum Tabletop Tripod

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Available in sleek red, shown above, and black, the Sirui 3T-35 Tabletop Tripod is a perfect gift for photographers in your life that need an ultra-compact, flexible, and portable tripod. 

It’s got a center column that can raise the tripod’s height to 13.5 inches tall. And even when extended to that height, the tripod is stable with its large legs providing excellent stability. When it’s time to pack up, the legs fold up for easy storage. For low-angle shots, you can remove the center column and attach the included ball head right to the base.

In other words, this little guy packs a punch, offering you all sorts of options for working with your camera. And at a price under $65, it’s a great buy, too!

Learn more about the Sirui 3T-35 Aluminum Tabletop Tripod.

Artbeat Studios HD Metal Print

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This holiday season, you can give the gift of a stunning HD Metal Print to the photography fans on your list, and do so without spending a huge sum of money, either.

Artbeat Studios offers a wide range of HD Metal Prints for well under $100, but they look like a million bucks.

That's because Artbeat Studios gives you tons of options for customizing the look of the print, from the surface and finish to the type of wall mount and wall hanger.

Their HD Metal Prints have incredible colors that are color checked to color calibrated monitors before printing commences to ensure the best look.

What's more, these prints are heat infused into a specially coated aluminum sheet. The result is a scratch-resistant, UV-resistant, and water-resistant metal print.

That means that for less than $100, you can give the gift of a vibrant, durable, gorgeous metal print that your loved one will cherish for decades to come!

Learn more about Artbeat Studios HD Metal Prints.

Alpine Labs Pulse

If you have a person to buy for this holiday and they love photography and gadgets, the Alpine Labs Pulse is the gift for them.

Pulse might be a little thing, but it packs a mighty punch as a camera remote on steroids...

Not only does Pulse allow photographers to control their cameras via a smartphone app, but it enables them to take traditional still photos, long exposures, real-time videos, and time-lapse videos.

And Pulse does all that by sitting on the camera's hot-shoe mount and plugging into the camera's USB port!

Using Bluetooth, Pulse talks to smartphones and delivers the ability to change exposure settings, start and stop video, review thumbnails and histograms, and so much more.

But the best part is that once Pulse has its commands, your phone doesn't have to stay connected - Pulse will take it from there.

Learn more about Pulse by Alpine Labs.

Canon 50mm f/1.8 II EF Mount Lens

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Ask any experienced photographer, and they'll likely tell you that the first lens new photographers should buy is a "Nifty Fifty."

If you're shopping for a Canon shooter this year, give them a great little lens in the Canon 50mm f/1.8 II.

With a large maximum aperture of f/1.8, this lens offers excellent low-light performance. It's sharp lens as well, producing clear, bright, detailed images.

At 50mm, this is an ideal normal lens on a full frame camera and a short telephoto lens on a crop sensor camera, so no matter which system your loved one uses, they'll find all sorts of uses for this lens.

It's also super lightweight - coming in at just 4.6 ounces - so it won't make your favorite photographer feel like they're carrying around a tank!

And if you by pre-owned, you can get a great deal, too!

Learn more about the Canon 50mm f/1.8 II EF Mount Lens from KEH Camera.

Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Circular Polarizing Filter

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For landscape photographers, the number one filter to use is a polarizer.

That's because it's so versatile and offers photographers so many benefits.

That includes reducing glare off of shiny surfaces like water and helping to reduce atmospheric haze for landscape photos that are clear and crisp.

Polarizers also boost the contrast in the sky, deepening the color of the sky and making clouds appear whiter for more visual impact.

One of the best polarizers around is the Formatt-Hitech Circular Polarizing Filter shown above.

It has a Formatt-Hitech's superb Firecrest anti-reflective multi-coating, so the images your loved one takes will have gorgeous color fidelity and contrast.

The filter glass is housed in a precision-milled SuperSlim or UltraSlim mount, too, meaning they stay out of the way of the lens to do its job.

If you have a loved one that loves landscape photography, this is the filter to get them!

Learn more about the Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Circular Polarizing Filter.

4V Design Ergo Wrist Strap

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If you have a photographer on your holiday list that likes to shoot lean and mean, a wrist strap for carrying their camera is an ideal gift.

But not all wrist straps are made alike...

Give them the gift of a highly functional and durable strap that also looks incredible by giving them the 4V Design Ergo Wrist strap.

It's got a unique curved design with inner padding that helps distribute the weight and pressure of the camera more evenly around the wrist. The special way that the strap is cut also helps prevent the strap from sliding off, too.

It's length adjustable to accommodate various sized wrists and has a reinforced, stitched, and folded attachment end for additional safety.

This thing even has hand-painted edges for a custom look that's sure to knock the socks off of your loved one when they open it.

Learn more about the 4V Design Ergo Wrist Strap.

Sirui Mobile Phone Lens

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Sirui has built a reputation for making some of the best tripods in the world, and now they've expanded their product line into the mobile phone market.

That means that for this holiday season, you can surprise that photography lover on your list with one of Sirui's mobile phone lenses.

With three different lenses to choose from - a portrait lens, a wide-angle/macro combo lens, or a fisheye lens - you can help your loved one create their artistic vision with their mobile phone.

Each lens has a multi-layer anti-reflection coating that allows for high light transmission. What's more, they produce images that have precise color rendition, reduced vignetting, and minimal distortion for a 4K professional image quality.

They're easy to mount, too, as they attach to a mobile phone case or lens mount adapter (sold separately).

Learn more about Sirui Mobile Phone Lenses.

Sew Trendy Elsa Crown

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If you have a photographer on your list that works with young ladies (or if you have a young lady to buy for), you might consider the Sew Trendy Elsa Crown as a top choice this holiday season.

This stunning, free-flowing crown is adorned with acrylic crystals that give it all sorts of sparkle.

It can be worn for various occasions, from holiday-themed photo shoots to princess parties.

At approximately 6-inches in diameter, it's large enough to command attention but not so large that it's weighty or overwhelming for a young lady to wear.

Looking at the image above, you can see just how gorgeous this crown is!

Learn more about the Sew Trendy Elsa Crown.



We Recommend


Top 10 Gifts for Photographers Under $150 - 2017 Edition

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Shopping for photographers can be a tough task during the holidays for a couple of reasons.

First, by and large, photography gear is expensive.

Second, there's just a ton of great gear out there, so it can be hard to decide what the photographer in your life might want the most.

We're here to help, with this list of 10 of the best photography gifts for less than $150.

Vanguard VEO 2 235AB Tripod

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Many photographers need a lightweight, super portable tripod for taking photos on the go. If you have one such photographer to buy for this Christmas, you should consider giving them the Vanguard VEO 2 235AB tripod.

This tripod is made of magnesium and aircraft aluminum alloy, so it weighs a mere 3.1 pounds, but it can hold a load up to 13.2 pounds. What’s more, with 5 leg sections, it can extend to a height of 57.1 inches for easy eye-level shooting. Each leg can be positioned at three different angles to accommodate uneven terrain, too.

Its advanced Twist Lock system allows for fast and rock-solid setup of the tripod in mere seconds so there’s less of a chance of missing critical shots. It also has a dedicated suspension loop for adding ballast for additional stability in windy conditions. Paired with its angled rubber feet, this tripod has tons of stability-enhancing features.

And even though this tripod is priced below $150, it comes with a multi-action ball head with knobs for locking, panning, and friction control. That makes this tripod an even better deal!

Learn more about the Vanguard VEO 2 235AB Tripod.

4V Design SELLA Neck Strap

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Those flimsy neck straps that come with cameras are just about the worst feature of modern-day camera systems. Fortunately for the photographer in your life, you can help them upgrade their strap to something that’s out of this world.

This holiday, consider the 4V Design SELLA Neck Strap as the ideal gift for the photographer on your list. These professional leather straps are made of Tuscany leather, meaning they’re not only rich, supple, and comfortable on the neck, but they’re also incredibly beautiful, too.

The Slow-Memory foam padding and the Ultra Grip technology on the strap means it will conform to your loved one’s neck and won’t slip, either. And with 32cm of length range, it’s adjustable to fit any size of body. That makes for a comfortable and a safe carrying experience!

Speaking of safe, the military standard polyamide camera attachment and metal buckles ensure durability for decades of use. But don’t think that this strap is strictly utilitarian - the hand-painted detailing on the strap gives it a touch of customization and class.

If you’re after a gift that’s sure to wow, consider giving the gift of a 4V Design SELLA Neck Strap!

Learn more about the 4V Design SELLA Neck Strap.

Sirui A-1005 Aluminum Tripod

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A great introductory tripod, the Sirui A-1005 model offers an incredible number of features for the price.

It has a center column that raises for extra height and can be inverted to get extra low, that way the photographer on your holiday list can get a different perspective on the subject being photographed.

If you need to be a little more mobile to follow your subject, you can even detach one of the tripod’s legs and use it as a monopod.

But that’s not the only convenient feature your loved one will enjoy - the legs fold up 180-degrees to make it extra compact for storage and carrying, and each leg has an automatic angle lock mechanism for quick and easy setup.

No matter if the photographer in your life enjoys portraits, landscapes, street scenes, or something in between, the Sirui A-1005 will help them get better shots.

Learn more about the Sirui A-1005 Aluminum Tripod.

Sew Trendy Emerlie Gown

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Sthefanie Souza Photography

If you have an expecting mom on your holiday list this year, don’t just focus on getting her gifts for her baby. Give her gifts for her, too!

A wonderful option is the Emerlie Gown by Sew Trendy.

This gorgeous gown has a slim fit cut that shows off her body’s curves and highlights her baby bump, and cascades to the floor for a look that’s not just elegant, but is also a touch romantic, too.

That makes the Emerlie Gown a perfect idea for a maternity photo shoot. It’s soft and comfortable, form-fitting and flattering, and tailored for a custom look. She can even wear it as a non-maternity gown as well!

Learn more about the Sew Trendy Emerlie Gown.

CanvasHQ 36x24 Canvas Print

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If you really want to make a statement with a gift that has true wow factor, a 36x24 canvas print should do the trick!

For the best canvases, you can’t go wrong with CanvasHQ, an experienced printer with a commitment to creating top-quality products. Trust me - I have a number of CanvasHQ prints in my home!

This 36x24 canvas is a great size for a showcase piece on the wall of your loved one’s home. The .75-inch thickness offers just enough depth on the sides of the canvas to give it a little separation from the wall, but without distracting the eye from the gorgeous print. You can even have the canvas placed in a frame later on if you wish, making it a flexible option to meet your gift-buying needs.

And don’t think that ordering a print of this size is a tough process, either. With CanvasHQ, you get free digital proofs so you’re sure that the image meets your wishes. And even if the proofs don’t turn out how you’d expected, no worries! CanvasHQ will make minor tweaks to help you achieve your artistic vision.

Even better, since CanvasHQ is a small, family-owned business, they’re at-the-ready to help make your experience one that you’ll rave about to your friends and family. Call, write, or hit up the live chat with questions or concerns, and a real, live CanvasHQ employee will help you out!

Learn more about CanvasHQ 36x24 Prints.

Wolverine Data F2D Titan 8-in-1 High Definition Film to Digital Converter

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A question that a lot of photographers have on their minds is, “What can I do with my old 35mm negatives and slides?” If you have one such photographer in the family, think about getting them the ultimate photography gift this holiday season - the Wolverine Data F2D Titan.

This bad boy allows you to convert your old 35mm/127/126 & 110 negatives, slides, 8mm and Super 8 movies into 20-megapixel digital images in mere seconds. Literally - you push a button, and the Titan does the rest without the need for any additional software or even a computer!

Each scanned image is saved to the Titan’s internal memory, or you can opt to save them straight to an SD/SDHC memory card. You can transfer the images to your Mac or PC for storage or editing, or if you want to quickly view the images, you can hook the Titan up to your TV to watch a slideshow (TV cable not included).

In other words, this is an ideal gift for photographers that have a ton of old negatives, or even a friend or family member that’s been hanging onto their old memories, but unable to do much with them. Give them the gift of organizing their photos and being able to enjoy their old memories quickly and easily too!

Learn more about the Wolverine Data F2D Titan 8-in-1 High Definition Film to Digital Converter.

Sew Trendy Miriam Gown

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Iga Logan Photography

A holiday gift that has an elegance about it with a soft, luxurious touch is the Sew Trendy Miriam Gown.

Surprise the mom-to-be in your life with this handcrafted gown, designed to be comfortable, versatile, and look great, too. The dress comes with various options, including a front center split, a side split to show a little more leg or a no-split option for additional coverage. And with a straight top and off the shoulder long sleeves, it’s the perfect gown for gatherings, events, and photo shoots for expecting moms.

The heavy knit material is both flattering and comfortable and has a soft flow to it that adds a bit of whimsy without feeling heavy or in the way. And with non-maternity options available, it’s a great idea for the ladies on your holiday list that aren’t expecting at the moment either!

Learn more about the Sew Trendy Miriam Gown.

Microsoft Surface Dial

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If you're looking for a gift for a photographer that'll help them with their daily workflow on their Surface Book, Laptop, Studio, or another Surface device, consider a Microsoft Surface Dial.

The Dial is a totally new way of interacting with a computer because it allows you to store, access, navigate, and customize the process of working to suit your specific needs.

That's something your favorite photographer is sure to appreciate!

It's easier to control a Surface machine, get in and out of menus, turn music up or down, and access shortcuts.

It's even compatible with creative software so tasks like drawing, sketching, and editing photos become a total breeze!

Learn more about the Microsoft Surface Dial.

Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Circular Graduated Neutral Density Filter

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One of the most important filters for landscape photographers is a graduated neutral density filter.

Graduated neutral density filters (like the one above) give landscape photographers the ability to darken bright skies to bring down the dynamic range for an improved exposure.

In other words, it helps balance out the brightness of the sky and the darkness of the foreground for a final image that has a much better exposure from top to bottom.

Formatt-Hitech makes some of the best filters in the business -  their graduated neutral density filters have Firecrest rare earth metal coatings to help generate hyper neutral results with no color casts.

In other words, if the photographer on your list complains about sub par results when they're photographing landscapes, this will help them elevate their game!

Learn more about the Formatt-Hitech Firecrest Circular Neutral Density Soft Edge Grad Filter.

Vanguard UP-RISE II 45

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One of the problems that photographers face is being able to carry all the gear they need, but do so in a way that's comfortable for them and keeps their gear organized and easily accessible.

To solve that problem, get your photography holiday shopping done with the Vanguard UP-RISE II 45.

This backpack will hold a pro-level DSLR, 4-5 lenses, a flash, camera accessories like batteries and memory cards, and a tripod.

It's got a quick-action side access panel that will give your favorite photographer access to his or her gear in mere seconds.

With an ergonomic air system back and harness, they'll be comfortable carrying all that gear, too.

It's even got an integrated rain cover, so if the weather goes south, their gear will remain protected.

If the photographer on your list loves adventure, get them outfitted with this bag this holiday season!

Learn more about the Vanguard UP-RISE II 45.



We Recommend


Top 10 Gifts for Photographers Under $25 - 2017 Edition

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I know what you're thinking...

Photography gear is expensive, and there's no way that there's cool, fun or functional camera gear that you can buy for a loved one for $25 or less.

Think again!

There's TONS of awesome gift ideas for photographers at this price point. Check out a sampling of them below.

.photo Domain Name by Uniregistry

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Part of the challenge of marketing a photography business and helping customers find what they’re looking for is having a top-notch website. And what better way to promote that website than with a .photo domain name?

Give the gift of the perfect online presence this holiday by giving your favorite photographer a .photo domain name. Uniregistry has teamed up with PhotographyTalk to offer photographers this exciting opportunity to have a fresh, new domain that will help them promote their online presence. 

It’s the ideal solution for photographers that suffer with a long URL. Just imagine being able to have chrisjohnson.photo instead of chrisjohnsonphotography.com! That will make it easier to have the website name in small places like business cards and on smartphone screens too. 

At just $20, a .photo domain name is a great stocking stuffer idea for the photographer on your list! 

Learn more about Uniregistry.

Formatt-Hitech Standard Neutral Density Filter

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If the photographer on your list wants to dip their toes into the world of long exposure photography, they'll need a neutral density filter.

That's where you come in...

For under $25, you can give them the capability to create daytime long exposures with a standard neutral density filter from Formatt-Hitech.

These filters produce a grey neutral effect, allowing the colors and brightness of the scene to shine through.

Because they block some of the light from entering the lens, they allow for the longer exposures needed to blur the movement of water, clouds, and other moving objects.

Available in different densities from one-stop to four-stop, there's an array of possibilities for helping your loved one create the gorgeous long exposures they dream of!

Learn more about Formatt-Hitech's Standard Neutral Density Filter.

.pics Domain Name by Uniregistry

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If you think a .photo domain name doesn’t quite fit the photographer on your holiday list, Uniregistry offers .pics domain names too. 

Priced right at just $20, a .pics domain name is perfect for photographers that want to stand out from the .com crowd while also establishing themselves as innovative and forward-thinking business people.

Or, if your favorite photographer already has a website, a .pics domain name would be a perfect complement to their existing site and other marketing materials. They could use a .pics domain for a private gallery site or to host their professional portfolio to enhance their brand even further.

A .pics website could even be used as a place to display personal images. On the other hand, it could also be used as an e-commerce site where the photographer on your list could share and sell their work with ease.

This holiday, consider giving the gift of a .pics domain name! 

Learn more about Uniregistry.

CanvasHQ $25 Gift Card

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If you’re not sure what to give your loved one this holiday, why not help them get creative with a gift card to CanvasHQ?

The great thing about a CanvasHQ gift card is that it gets you off the hook for buying for someone that’s already got everything or who’s hard to buy for. Plus, they get to decide what picture they want to turn into a gorgeous canvas print.

The best part is that even with a $25 gift card, your loved one can get beautiful artwork because CanvasHQ’s prices are so reasonable! Help them offset the cost of a large print, or they can choose something smaller that’s covered more by your gift. Heck, you can get gift cards in whatever amount you want, too!

Art is one of those gifts that’s difficult to judge, so let your favorite photographer decide for themselves, and give them the gift of a CanvasHQ gift card this holiday season.

Learn more about CanvasHQ Gift Cards.

band.it

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This innovative little gadget might not look like much, but trust me, it very well could be one of the most useful tools in a photographer's kit.

It's called band.it, and it not only helps photographers find the focus or zoom ring more quickly to get the shots they need, but it also helps improve grip on the lens.

That means photographers can hold their camera and lens more steadily, resulting in sharper photos.

But that's not all...

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Having band.it on the focus or zoom ring also protects it from damage, so for less than $25, you can help prevent the $200 (or more) lens rings from getting damaged.

The soft, elastomer band fits any camera lens - the photographer on your list need only stretch it out, put it in place on the zoom or focus ring on their lens, and they're good to go!

This ingenious gizmo even helps prevent lens creep, which can occur when the lens is pointed up or down at a steep angle.

So, if you want to give the photographer on your list a gift that's practical, functional, and can help them take better photos at the same time, get them band.it.

Learn more about band.it.

Peak Design Anchor Links

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If the photographer in your life has a neck strap that they really, really love, but they don't love its functionality, then these Peak Design Anchor Links are the solution.

These quick connectors can be placed on the ends of any standard camera neck strap, allowing photographers a much faster and secure way of attaching and detaching the neck strap from their camera.

The low-profile anchors feature slim hardware that stays out of the way, yet is highly durable at the same time.

Learn more about the Peak Design Anchor Links.

MPB 8GB SDHC Memory Card

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A fast memory card is a must for today's photographer, and the 8GB SDHC Class 10 card from MPB fits the bill.

With read speeds of up to 70MB/second, your favorite photographer can quickly store and review the images they take, speeding up their shooting process while giving them the confidence that they have a high-quality card on which to store their photos.

This is an especially great gift idea for new photographers that don't need a ton of storage on their cards but want something with blazing speed.

And at just $16, it's an ideal stocking-stuffer idea!

Learn more about the MPB 8GB SDHC Memory Card.

Fotodiox Pro 42" 5-in-1 Reflector

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A reflector is one of the most useful gifts for photographers that take portraits.

This 5-in-1 reflector pack offers even more versatility with a translucent diffuser to filter light and a black anti-reflector to block light or change the contrast of light on the subject.

Additionally, there's a soft white reflector to reduce shadows, soft silver for brightening the image and increasing contrast, and a soft gold reflector that warms up light in the portrait.

In other words, the photographer on your list can reflect light, diffuse it or even block it!

The reflector pack collapses into itself for easy transport in the accompanying carrying case too.

Learn more about the Fotodiox 5-in-1 Reflector.

Amazon Basics Wireless Camera Remote

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The great thing about having a wireless remote for a camera is that it allows photographers to set up their camera and trigger the shutter without having to touch the camera.

That means less camera shake and sharper final images...

And with the Amazon Basics Wireless Remote, your favorite photographer can step out from behind the lens and join group shots or even take selfies while they're at it.

Perhaps best of all for you, this remote is a bargain price at just $8.50!

It's a great stocking-stuffer idea for any photographer on your list.

Learn more about the Amazon Basics Wireless Remote for Canon or Nikon cameras.

Giottos Rocket Air Blaster

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Every photographer needs the proper tools to clean their gear.

This holiday season, give the gift of a Giottos Rocket Air Blaster so your favorite photographer can keep their camera's sensor free of dust and debris.

The 7.5-inch-long blaster has a 2.5-inch nozzle that produces a large blast of clean air to get rid of particles on the camera's sensor.

The one-way valve brings in clean air instead of sucking up dust that it's just dislodged, too.

It's easy to carry, durable, and invaluable for keeping photography gear operating at its best!

Learn more about the Giottos Rocket Air Blaster.



We Recommend


Top 10 Gifts for Photographers Under $250 - 2018 Edition

gifts for photographers 2018Image Credit: mikkelwilliam via iStock

Here we are in August, and before you know it, December will be here and you'll be in a panic with your holiday shopping.

So why not be prepared this year and start searching for that perfect gift for the photographer on your list?

To help you get your holiday shopping started early, we've put together this top 10 list of gifts for photographers.

Each of these items is priced below $250, so you can get your favorite photographer an awesome gift without breaking the bank.

Without further ado, here's our favorite gift ideas for photographers for 2018.

Lensfinder

lensfinder

Let’s face it - photography gear can be expensive. Really expensive.

That’s a problem year-round, but when you’re holiday shopping and have tons of gifts to buy, it’s even more difficult to justify getting your loved one the $1,000 lens that they really want.

Fortunately, Lensfinder can help in more ways than one.

On the one hand, you can find great deals on pre-owned camera lenses at Lensfinder. 

That means that you can get a truly top-notch lens for the photographer in your life but do so without busting your budget. It’s a win-win!

On the other hand, if you have some old lenses that you don’t use anymore, you can list them for sale on Lensfinder. When the lens sells, you can use it for holiday spending money for the photographer in your life. 

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The best part? You can list your lenses for sale for free. 

There’s only a transaction fee (just 3.99%) when the lens sells (with a maximum fee of $500). If your lens doesn’t sell, there’s no charge at all!

And for peace of mind, the Lensfinder platform has advanced fraud filtering for both buyers and sellers as well as mediation services in the event that there’s a problem.

Payments are made and received via PayPal, so you can rest easy knowing that the transaction is safe and secure.

In other words, Lensfinder is the ideal solution for your holiday shopping needs. Either use it to find a loved one a killer lens or use it to sell old gear to pad your pockets for holiday spending!

Learn more about Lensfinder

Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AP Tripod

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When it comes to tripods, it's hard to beat the combination of innovative features and pricing that you get with Vanguard.

Their Alta Pro 2+ 263AP tripod kit gives the photographer on your list everything they need, from a 3-way fluid pan head for smooth panning to a multi-angle center column for positioning the camera for unique points of view to the angled rubber feet that keep the tripod right where it needs to be.

This tripod is also lightweight due to its aluminum and magnesium construction, but it can still hold a solid 11 pounds of gear.

Its three-section legs offer various angle positions - 20, 40, 60, and 80-degrees - that way your favorite photographer can get the tripod positioning just right for the specific shot they want.

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What's more, Vanguard has added features that make this a highly practical tripod.

There's a canopy suspension loop where weight can be added to improve stability.

There's also an integrated bubble level to help keep the horizons straight in landscape photos.

The bonus Alta Link 3/8-inch thread connection is great for adding accessories like a reflector, articulated arms, or other needed tools.

Add in non-slip, all-weather TPU grips on two legs, an included bag with shoulder strap, and quick and easy setup, and you have the makings of an awesome tripod for less than $250!

Learn more about the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AP tripod

Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo

holdfast moneymaker soloPhoto by Brandon Burk

Designed specifically for single camera shooters, the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo is a perfect choice for the photographer on your holiday shopping list.

Famed for their MoneyMaker dual camera strap, Holdfast has now brought their impeccable designs and commitment to quality products to bear for shooters that don’t need two or three cameras on their person.

Worn as a sling strap, the MoneyMaker Solo has a big, soft, contoured shoulder strap that ensures that you’ll have a comfortable carrying experience whether you’re only out shooting for a couple of hours or if you’re out shooting for an entire day.

With an integrated stabilizer strap, the MoneyMaker Solo will stay put on your shoulder so you don’t have to worry about it slipping off.

What’s more, you can use the Holdfast Belt Anchor to give the Solo even more stability, it locks the camera to your belt, no more flopping around as you maneuver and bend over while working. Then a quick pull on the release tab as you grab your camera and you’re ready to take the shot!

As well, you can also use all of the Holdfast Gear accessories with the Solo like a Holdfast Cell Phone Pouch or Lens Pouch. See how it all comes together in the video above.

Just like the original MoneyMaker, the MoneyMaker Solo gives you unparalleled freedom of movement so you can get the shots you want without having your gear in the way.

In that regard, the MoneyMaker Solo ticks all the boxes - it’s highly functional, incredibly comfortable, works without getting in your way, and it looks like a million buck!

Learn more about the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo

Pana-Vue Pana-Scan Portable Stand-Alone Combo Scanner

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You’re certain to have a special someone on your holiday list this year who has tons of old photos, negatives, and slides lying around their house. 

And for that person, the ideal gift this holiday season is the Pana-Vue Pana-Scan Portable Stand-Alone Combo Scanner from Argraph.

Going digital has never been so easy as it is with this high-tech, easy-to-use scanner.

Whether your loved one has photos, 35mm negatives, 110 and 126 Instamatic negatives, or 35mm slides, they can bring their memories into the 21st Century.

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Not only is this scanner quick and efficient, but with its anti-glare technology, users can scan photos right from existing photo albums without removing the prints - especially important for old, fragile photos. 

If they have loose photos, this rig will scan up to 4x6 prints (as well as slides and negatives) into 14-megapixel digital files. All this can be done without a computer, too!

It takes just moments to complete the scan, and at that point, users can view the scanned images on a TV, send the images via email, share the images on social media, or even print the images. 

There’s simply not an easier way to digitize old photos than with Argraph’s Pana-Vue Combo Scanner!

Learn more about the Pana-Vue Pana-Scan Portable Stand-Alone Combo Scanner

PolarPro Quartzline Filters

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Lens filters are by far one of the most valuable accessories you can buy to improve the quality of your photos, which is why filters are such a great holiday gift idea for the photographer in your life.

But not all lens filters are made alike. In fact, most filters out there aren’t worth the money.

There are other lens filters that absolutely knock it out of the park, though. At the top of that list are the Quartzline Filters from PolarPro.

What sets these bad boys apart from the competition is the fact that they’re made of 99.9% pure fused quartz.

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Not only does quartz offer better optical clarity than glass, but it’s also far more durable, too. 

That means you can buy your loved one an awesome filter that has a lifetime warranty. That mean it will last them a good long while!

These filters have a single lens element that produces a very low refractive index of 1.46. They have excellent temperature stability as well. With a hyper neutral color profile, near perfect target transmission, multi-coatings (16 layers!) for enhanced resistance to scratches, anti-reflectivity technology, an anti-oil coating, water resistance, and reduced vignetting, these filters are among the best performers on the market today.

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Paired with the top-notch quartz element is an over-engineered brass filter frame that makes threading it onto a lens a breeze. Naturally, the brass frame is highly durable, too. 

You get a microfiber lens cloth for cleaning, a soft filter pouch, and a hard case for storage as well. There’s even a lifetime warranty that covers you if anything happens to the filter (apart from losing it).

With UV, circular polarizers, 3-stop to 15-stop neutral density filters, and polarizer/neutral density filter combinations available in a range of sizes, you’re sure to find the right lens filter for the photographer on your list.

Learn more about PolarPro Quartzline filters

CanvasHQ

If you ask me, one of the best gifts you can give someone during the holidays is a photo of a memory that you’ve shared together.

And I don’t mean a 4x6 paper print in a cheap frame, either…

This holiday season, you can make a bold statement by giving the gift of a fine art canvas print from CanvasHQ

Whether it’s a photo of you with a loved one, a landscape photo that a loved one took, or something in between, turning it into a large-format canvas print is a perfect gift.

CanvasHQ does it right, too.

Their commitment to quality is second-to-none, that way you’re assured of a canvas print that has vibrant and long-lasting colors. That’s thanks to the water-resistant, UV-resistant, and scuff-resistant inks they use on their fine art poly-cotton blend canvases.

Even the frames behind the canvas show a commitment to quality - they’re handcrafted from artist-quality, kiln-dried stretcher bars that will keep the canvas tight and flat for a lifetime. 

Add to the equation the fact that there’s a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, quick turnaround times, complimentary proofs, and tons of customization choices, and you have the makings of a great gift for loved ones this holiday season! 

Learn more about CanvasHQ canvas prints

Holdfast MoneyMaker Original

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Earlier on this list, I suggested the Holdfast MoneyMaker Solo for single camera shooters on your holiday list. Well, if you have a loved one that needs two (or even three) cameras right at their fingertips, the original Holdfast MoneyMaker is for them!

This rig puts two cameras right at your sides, and with an optional camera leash, you can carry a third camera on your chest. That means more variety of shots with cameras with different lenses, an elimination of lens changes, and no more having to dig through your camera bag to find the gear you need. 

Instead, the MoneyMaker puts all your gear right where you need it most - on you! And if you think that carrying three cameras with lenses and other accessories would be uncomfortable, you’re probably right - if you carry all that stuff with another camera strap.

holdfast moneymaker original 2

But because the MoneyMaker is so well made, it distributes the weight of your gear evenly across your shoulders and back. What’s more, the bridle leather will mold to your body over time, meaning it will fit like a glove. There’s nothing more comfortable than that! 

On top of it all, the MoneyMaker looks fantastic, has stainless steel hardware that’s durable and won’t rust, and is weather-resistant. You can even carry a Holdfast bag on the MoneyMaker to make it an even more appealing way to transport your gear.

In other words, this thing is a game-changer for photographers. The combination of form, function, and price is hard to beat!

Learn more about the Holdfast MoneyMaker Original

Sew Trendy Jaden Gown

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Maternity photographers are always on the lookout for beautiful clothing and accessories for their clients, which is why this stunning gown from Sew Trendy Fashion & Accessories would make such a great holiday gift!

The Jaden gown features a fashion-forward design from the slouch 3/4 style sleeve to the elegant form-fitting bodice that hugs the curves of the model to the widening of the gown at the knee for the height of elegance.

The soft heavy-knit stretch fabric offers the ultimate in comfort without sacrificing a sophisticated look, too.

Nonmaternity Jaden Moss Amber fite photography 3 webAmber Fite

This gown - which is handcrafted in the USA - is offered in both maternity and non-maternity versions, making it an even more versatile gift for the photographer on your list.

The non-maternity version could easily be worn for engagement photos, family portraits, senior photos, and more.

Sew Trendy has been in the business of helping photographers style their maternity and non-maternity photo shoots as well as newborn photo shoots since 2012, and in that time, has established itself as one of the premier clothing and accessories companies for photographers in the world.

If you have a photographer on your holiday list that needs to step up their styling game, the Jaden gown (or any other number of gowns, crowns, and other accessories) from Sew Trendy will make the ideal gift!

Learn more about the Sew Trendy Jaden gown

Petzl NAO + Headlamp

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A good headlamp is a great asset for a photographer to have, and with a budget of $250, you can give your favorite photographer the ultimate headlamp in the Petzl NAO +.

I can attest that this is a rockstar of a headlamp because I own one!

It's got an incredibly powerful and bright beam that puts out a whopping 750 lumens that allows me to see what I'm doing when I'm out late at night in Joshua Tree, Yosemite, and other deep, dark locations.

It's an intelligent headlamp, too...

It can be programmed via the MyPetzl Light app, which can also be used to monitor remaining burn time. If you find that juice is running low, simply use the app to adjust how the headlamp is performing to extend the battery life.

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On top of that, this rig has Reactive Lighting technology, which gives it the ability to adapt its light output to your needs.

It does so by analyzing the ambient light and instantaneously adjusting the brightness of the light to suit the conditions.

If it sounds like a crazy, futuristic device, that's because it is!

Petzl has outdone themselves with this thing because it's not just packed with features and incredibly functional, but it's comfortable to wear, too.

Learn more about the Petzl NAO + Headlamp

Formatt-Hitech 100 x 100mm Firecrest Ultra ND 3.0 Filter

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The Firecrest Ultra line of filters from Formatt-Hitech are among the best you can buy for the photographer on your list.

This 100 x 100mm ND 3.0 filter is no exception...

With impeccable construction with excellent clarity and reduced reflectivity, this solid ND filter will be the perfect gift for photographers that want to experiment with long exposure photography.

The 3.0 density darkens the entire image, allowing photographers to reduce the exposure by 10 full stops.

The result of that is gorgeous indicated movement with blurry clouds, water, cars, and other moving elements.

This filter undergoes multiple lapping and polishing processes as well, which ensures that it's ultra flat and provides excellent sharpness.

In other words, if you're looking for a perfect gift for photographers under $250, this is it!

Learn more about the Formatt-Hitech 100 x 100mm Firecrest Ultra ND 3.0 Filter

Bonus Gift Idea: Formatt-Hitech 100mm Firecrest Filter Holder Kit

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The great thing about the 100mm Firecrest Filter Holder Kit from Formatt-Hitech is that it's designed with both convenience and functionality in mind.

The photographer on your holiday list will be able to use up to two 100mm filters up to 2mm thick (sold separately), along with an included circular polarizer.

The kit is fully assembled, so it's a simple matter of attaching it to the desired lens, adding the filters, and starting shooting.

The holder has light-eliminating covers that minimize stray light, that way photographers get the shot they want without any aberrations.

Additionally, the aluminum-alloy filter holder has plastic filter slots in place, so adding filters is a breeze. What's more, these slots are held in place by four screws, which applies pressure to the filters to keep them in place.

If you want to give the best filter holder on the market to your favorite photographer, consider this feature-packed holder kit!

Learn more about the Formatt-Hitech 100mm Firecrest Filter Holder Kit

Bonus Gift Idea: A Nifty Fifty Lens

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Ask just about any photographer what their first lens purchase was, and they'll say a Nifty Fifty. That makes it the ideal gift idea for photographers this holiday season!

There's a lot to love about 50mm lenses, too...

For starters, it's a great focal length for learning all kinds of photography, from landscapes to portraits and everything in between.

That also makes it an incredibly versatile lens.

In fact, put a 50mm lens on your camera, and you can shoot all day long without ever needing a different focal length. They're even great for shooting video!

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You can find 50mm lenses with large apertures, too, like the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM shown above.

At f/1.8, photographers can more readily shoot in low-light conditions without having to push the ISO too high, which helps reduce digital noise.

Having a large aperture like that is also beneficial for gathering tons of light, that way a faster shutter speed can be used. It's also helpful for blurring the background in portraits to get a more professional-looking shot.

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Another benefit of a 50mm lens, like the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G shown above is that they force you to think more creatively about how you frame up your shots.

That is, since 50mm lenses have a constant focal length of 50mm, there's no zoom to rely on for getting close-up or wider shots. 

By using a 50mm lens and "zooming with your feet," becoming a master of composition can be an easier task because you're forced to physically move further away or closer to the subject.

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Of course, the biggest benefit of 50mm lenses is the price. You can find Nifty Fifties for any camera system, like Canon and Nikon as mentioned above, as well as Sony and others, like Panasonic, as well.

Regardless of the manufacturer, these lenses are well-priced so you can bestow a great little lens with tons of functionality and versatility upon your favorite photographer without busting your budget.

That sounds like a win-win deal to me! 

Learn more about 50mm lenses from Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, and Sony



We Recommend


Top Lens Filters of 2018

top lens filters of 2018Image Credit: blackred via iStock

One of the most important photography accessories you can own is a good set of filters.

The operative word here is "good"...

There's lots of dirt cheap filters out there that might entice you with a bargain basement price. However, those filters often use bargain basement materials, too. That's not what you want in front of your lens!

Instead, investing in high-quality filters will get you better results - and more durable filters to boot.

If you're in the market for new photo filters, consider any of the following as a good bet.

Best Lens Filters: NiSi V5-Pro 100mm Advanced Kit

best lens filters

If you're a landscape photographer, there's nothing better than a top-of-the-line filter kit that sets you up with all the goodies you need to create epic images.

NiSi's V5-Pro 100mm Advanced Kit includes a 100mm filter holder, a NiSi 0.9 Soft ND Grad, and three neutral density filters (3-stop, 6-stop, and 1-stop).

Additionally, you get a NiSi Reverse ND filter, a circular polarizer, and multiple adapter rings for fitting the kit to lens threads that run from 67mm up to 82mm.

nisi filter kit

On top of all that, you also get a cleaning cloth, an air blower, a cleaning eraser, and a carrying case.

It's truly an all-in-one kit that gives you the tools you need to control glare, manage dynamic range during sunrise or sunset, even out bright skies and dark landscapes, and create breathtaking long exposures.

And with NiSi's stellar reputation as one of the top manufacturers of lens filters, you know that with this kit, you'll get high-quality, durable products that will last you for years and years to come.

In that regard, this NiSi filter kit is a long-term investment that will more than pay for itself over the years.

Learn more about the NiSi V5-Pro 100mm Advanced Kit

Best Lens Filters: Kenko Professional Variable NDX Filter

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Why carry a bunch of different neutral density filters when Kenko has a variable ND that offers you a range of light-stopping power from 1.3-8.5 stops?

Available in 77mm and 82mm sizes, this filter offers a practical use factor range of ND2.5-450, and is extendable to ND1000.

Kenko crafted this filter by taking two pieces of the highest-quality polarizing glass and mounting them opposite each other.

That means that when you turn the filter ring, the filter darkens or lightens as you see fit.

kenko variable nd

Not only is this kind of filter invaluable for controlling exposure, but it also lets you get beautiful creative blur for long exposure photos.

When maxed out, this filter allows you to utilize a shutter speed that's several seconds long, even when shooting in full sun.

 

Editor's Tip: Get Kenko’s latest updates and access to promos for discounted gear. Click here to sign up.

 

And because Kenko has devised a depolarizing plate that's included in the filter, you get hyper-neutral color balance in the image.

No color shifting, a wide range of light stopping power, and top quality materials make this one of the top lens filters of the year.

Learn more about the Kenko Professional Variable NDX Filter

Best Lens Filters: Kenko Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter

kenko polarizer

If it's a circular polarizer you're after for your kit, the Kenko Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter should be a top choice for consideration.

These lens filters are the top-selling filters in Japan, and they're now available in the U.S.

They have optical glass that's coated and polished so that they resist environmental conditions like water and oils from your skin.

Additionally, the Nyumon series filters have a SLIM mounting ring to minimize vignetting when using wide-angle lenses.

Available in sizes from 37mm to 82mm, these filters are compatible with a wide range of lenses for Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus, Fuji, Tokina, and many other major brands of lenses.

Better still, these filters are priced very well, so you can get a top-quality filter without breaking the bank.

Learn more about the Kenko Nyumon Circular Polarizing Filter

Best Lens Filters: Formatt Hitech Firecrest 3-Stop ND Filter

firecrest nd

With its Firecrest technology, this ND filter from Formatt Hitech offers neutral color rendition across multiple light spectrums including UV, visible, and infrared light.

This Firecrest coating is sandwiched between the layers of filter glass, which gives it the ultimate protection from damage.

And since the filter glass itself is made in the United Kingdom using Schott Superwite glass, you know that it's not just durable and dependable, but is also some of the best optical glass available today.

These 100x100mm filters are compatible with a variety of filter holders, including those from Formatt Hitech, Lee, and NiSi.

And with a range of filters available from 1-stop to 16-stops, there's no shortage of selection for you to get precisely the amount of light-stopping power you need!

Learn more about the Formatt Hitech Firecrest 3-Stop ND Filter

Best Lens Filters: B+W Circular ND Filter

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If a circular ND filter is more your style, look no further than this model from B+W.

This particular example offers 6-stops of light-stopping power, which means a shutter speed of 1/60 seconds can be extended to a full second.

Because it has a higher transmission of red tones, the filter also has a slightly warming effect on the color of your images.

With a truly neutral gray design, Water-White Schott Glass construction, and brass threads, this little ND filter offers you tons of benefits at a more than reasonable price. There's even multiple sizing options and filter factors as well!

Learn more about the B+W Circular ND Filter

Best Lens Filters: PolarPro Quartzline ND 8/Polarizer Hybrid Filter

polarpro filter

What's not to love about this Quartzline filter from PolarPro?

Not only is this filter made of 99.9% pure fused quartz that gives it unrivaled clarity and incredible durability, but it's also a neutral density/polarizing filter hybrid.

That means you get the best of both worlds for extending your shutter speed while also boosting contrast in the sky and managing glare off non-metallic surfaces.

The filter glass has optical coatings that give them hyper-neutral color profiles with enhanced resistance to water and scratches.

What's more, PolarPro has crafted the filter housing out of brass, that way they thread on smoothly while providing the utmost in durability.

In addition to a top-quality filter, you also get a microfiber cloth for cleaning, a soft filter pouch, and a hard filter case for protecting your filter when it's not in use. There's even multiple sizes and ND strengths to choose from as well.

Learn more about the PolarPro Quartzline ND8/Polarizer Hybrid Filter

Best Lens Filters: Marumi DHG Super Circular Polarizing Filter

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The Marumi DHG Super Circular Polarizing Filter is one of the best available on the market today.

With their high-grade optical glass that improves durability and a satin finish on the filter housing that reduces reflections, you have a filter that's tough, smartly designed, and inexpensive to boot.

The filter has six coatings - including an anti-static layer that prevents dirt and dust from sticking to the glass. There's also an ultra-low reflective layer to minimize reflections.

On top of that, this filter is just 5mm thick, which lessens its profile on the front of your lens. That means less vignetting when shooting with a wide-angle lens and at a wide aperture.

From 37mm up to 105mm, Marumi has a circular polarizer for just about any lens!

Learn more about the Marumi DHG Super Circular Polarizing Filter



We Recommend


Top Smartphone Photography Tips for 2017

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Let's face it...

It's not always practical to have your "big boy" camera with you.

Fortunately, we live in an era in which our phones make pretty darn good cameras that are more than adequate as backup to shooting with a DSLR or mirrorless camera. 

But I'll be honest - there are occasions when I actually prefer to use my smartphone over my "real" camera.

Quick portraits of my family, macro shots, and maybe even an occasional selfie too...

And those types of photos (and more!) are made much easier by the incredible variety of apps you can download for taking and processing photos on your phone.

With all that in mind, I invite you to consider these top smartphone photography tips to try in 2017.

Don't Hesitate

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There have been plenty of times in my photography career that I've hesitated to take a shot for whatever reason.

Maybe I thought it wasn't pretty enough. Perhaps I thought that my phone just couldn't handle the situation, like a wide dynamic range.

As with so many things in life, though, the things I regret most are the things I never tried. In hindsight, I wish I would have just pressed the shutter just to see what would have happened, rather than just giving up from the get-go.

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If there's any doubt about how a shot will turn out, just take the shot anyway.

There's no harm in having a photo that doesn't turn out - you can always just delete it.

But if you never take it in the first place, you'll never know what might have been!

Actually Do Something With Your Photos

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A great way to improve your smartphone photography is to actually do something with the photos you take.

It's easy to never progress your craft if all you do is let your photos sit in your camera roll.

Instead, challenge yourself to find ways to share your photos. Get them in front of other people's eyes, because nothing makes you strive to be a better photographer than having other people check out your work.

Share your images on 500px or Instagram. Upload them to PhotographyTalk's galleries. Share them with friends and family on Facebook. Print a few shots and send them to people.

However you do it, try to elicit feedback from the people you share your images with.

No one sees the same image exactly the same way, so something you completely miss in your shot that's really excellent (or, maybe even not so great) can be pointed out to you and you can use that information to make the next shot better.

Create Black and White Images

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Going with black and white smartphone photos will help you become a better mobile photographer for a couple of important reasons.

First, when creating black and white photos, you have to learn how to see the scene a little bit differently.

That is, you have to train your eye to see things like texture, patterns, light and shadow, and structure, as these features help make for a more dynamic black and white photo.

By changing the way you look at a scene, you're forced to slow down a little bit, examine the scene more closely, and the images you take as a result will be improved.

Secondly, shooting in black and white means you have to spend more time in post-processing.

Even though processing an image on your phone is a bit of a different animal than it is on your computer, it's still necessary to get familiar with editing apps like VSCO or Snapseed because having that post-processing know-how will open up many more creative opportunities for your smartphone images.

Shoot Macro

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Believe it or not, your smartphone might just be an excellent option for macro photography. This is especially true if your phone was released in the last couple of years.

When taking a macro shot with your smartphone, it's important to bear a few things in mind.

First, try to get your phone about two inches away from the subject. More or less, this is as close you can get and still get the subject in focus.

Second, look for macro scenes that have good indirect lighting.

"Good" is hard to quantify here, though. Too much light makes it hard for your smartphone to handle the brightness of the light and darkness of the shadows. On the other hand, not enough light means you won't be able to capture enough details.

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Lastly, outfit your smartphone with a macro lens, like the one shown above by Kenko.

The beauty of this lens is that it's not complicated to attach to your phone like so many other smartphone lenses.

Instead, it simply clips on, and you're ready to take macro photos.

The lens is made of fine-processed glass, so you're assured that the image quality is spot on. What's more, it offers a 120-degree view, giving your a wide-angle perspective of your macro subject.

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Speaking of wide-angle, this lens is two-in-one so that you can shoot wide-angle photos and macro photos as well.

That gives you more capability to get higher-quality smartphone shots, whether it's of an insect or flower, or a vast landscape like a mountain range.

Learn more about Kenko smartphone lenses.

Get Out of Auto

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Just like shooting in fully automatic mode on your "real" camera doesn't always get you the best results, letting your phone handle all the settings won't' get you the best results either.

Granted, not all phones allow you to shoot in manual mode, but if your phone does have that feature, learn how to use it.

After all, even on your least creative of days, you and your eyes are a far better judge of what a scene looks like (and should look like) than your camera and lens.

If you find that your phone doesn't have manual exposure controls, download an app like Camera FV-5 Lite for Android or Camera+ on iOS. Both give you far more control over exposure than the native software on many phones.

Bonus Tip: Use Your Phone as a Mini Computer

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Even on those occasions when you prefer to shoot with your DSLR or mirrorless camera, don't discount the power of your phone to help you out.

You can do anything from find a dark spot for nighttime long exposures to calculate hyperfocal distance.

The point is that at no point in the history of photography have we had more powerful photography tools than we do now. Even if you don't use your phone as a camera, it can still make the photos you take with your traditional camera much better.



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Top Tips to Help You Take Better Landscape Photos

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Those of us that enjoy photographing landscapes know that there's a huge amount of work that goes into creating images like the one shown above.

I mean, I wish I could tell you that it's as easy as pulling the car over, rolling the window down, and snapping a photo in full auto mode, but it's not!

But it doesn't have to be overly complicated, either.

In a sea of landscape photography recommendations, tips, tricks, and tutorials, there's a few things that always come up, over and over again, as the most important factors in creating a great landscape photo.

Here's a few of those tips.

Shoot During Golden Hour

The period after sunrise and before sunset - Golden Hour - is ideal for landscape photography.

Why? 

You have the advantage of working with incredible light that's soft, warm, and casts long shadows across the landscape.

The warmth of the light gives landscape images a nice glow while the shadows are soft, giving the image excellent depth and dimension.

Another alternative is to shoot during the Blue Hour, which occurs just before sunrise and just after sunset.

Instead of warm, golden light, Blue Hour features deep, dark blue tones, as you might expect.

Either way, Golden Hour or Blue Hour will give your landscapes more drama!

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Connect the Foreground to the Background

In portraiture, you often want to separate the subject from the background because it helps make the subject more prominent in the shot.

This is often done by using a shallow depth of field whereby the subject is sharply in focus but the background is nicely blurred.

But in landscape photography, you generally want to connect these elements in order to create a more complete visual story.

That means using tricks like leading lines to help provide a roadmap for where you want the viewer's eye to go.

It might also mean using layering techniques (as seen above), such that the image has more perceived depth due to the repeating nature of the elements in the shot.

Another way to help bring the foreground and background together is to shoot with a longer lens, which compresses the distance from front to back, making distant objects seem nearer than they really are.

Each of these techniques is really straightforward - it's just a matter of practicing them to gain confidence in your ability to implement them into your own photos.

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Give Viewers Unique Angles

I'm well over six feet tall. But you know what? Taking landscape photos from my eye level is basically the same as someone that's barely five feet tall.

In other words, we all see landscapes from our traditional point of view all the time.

If you want to give viewers something unique, you're going to have to take more drastic measures than adjusting the eye level by a foot or two...

That means getting up high, perhaps on top of a hill or a mountain, and composing a shot looking down below. That will help you maximize the impact of the scale of the scene before you.

Conversely, you might get down low and shoot upwards, giving viewers a worm's eye view of the surroundings. This point of view emphasizes height as opposed to space.

These days, another option is to use a drone to get a true top-down perspective on the landscape below.

The point is that landscape photos are a dime a dozen, so if you want to capture the attention of viewers, you'll need to give them something that shows off a perspective they're likely not to have seen before.

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Try Using a Frame

Earlier, I mentioned that using compositional tools like leading lines can help you create images with more depth.

Frames offer the same benefits.

A frame within a frame is an instant way to capture a scene in a unique way that also has greater dimension.

What's more, a frame within a frame gives you the ability to mask out part of the scene that you might not want in the shot, like other photographers roaming around.

Not only that, but a frame within a frame helps you direct the viewer's attention deeper into the shot and can help make the primary subject in the shot that much stronger from a visual perspective.

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Use Filters

In addition to the composition tricks outlined above, you can also use filters to create more dynamic and interesting landscape photos.

There are a variety of filters you might find useful in your photography pursuits, including:

  • Polarizing filters, which reduce glare, minimize atmospheric haze, and increase the contrast between the sky and the clouds, which results in a cleaner, crisper, and more contrasty image.
  • Neutral density filters, which allow you to use longer shutter speeds during the daytime to blur the effects of movement, such as clouds, water (as shown above), or even vehicles.
  • Graduated neutral density filters, which even out the bright sky with the often darker landscape, resulting in an image that is well-exposed throughout.

You can even get reverse neutral density filters, which are specifically designed for sunrise and sunset photos.

These filters are darkest in the middle - to correspond with the light of the rising or setting sun on the horizon - less dark on the top to account for the sky, and with zero filtering on the bottom to account for the darkened landscape.

UV filters are also popular, mostly for their use as an added layer of protection for your expensive lens glass.

But beware - not all lens filters are made equally...

If you want the best landscape photography filters, I'd go with Formatt-Hitech.

Not only are their filters made to the finest specifications with the best materials, but they simply provide you with the best performance.

Their neutral density filters feature a rare earth metal coating that gets you hyper neutral results without any color casting.

Their Firecrest polarizing filters (like the one shown above) have anti-reflective multicoating that ensures you get photos of the landscape before you, and not any glare or haze.

In other words, these filters enhance your ability to get the shots you want without breaking the bank, either.

And when you combine using top-quality filters with the composition tips outlined above, you've got a recipe for better landscape photos sooner rather than later.

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Travel Photography Secrets for Better Photos

how to take better travel photosImage Credit: Beboy_ltd via iStock 

The great thing about travel photography is that it's an opportunity to create lasting memories of the different sights, smells, ambiance, and character of the places we visit.

It's also an opportunity to capture different cultures and traditions in a form that is much more everlasting than our memories.

But taking photos of these things and creating photos of these things are different.

Taking a photo simply documents what you saw at a particular time. But creating a photo helps bring back those sights and smells and the character of the people and places you visited.

Here's how to take better travel photos and create something that's more than just an image on a screen.

Think About the "Why" of Your Trip

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One of the keys to creating meaningful and memorable travel photos is to focus on the "why" of your trip.

After all, there's a reason you choose to travel to the places you travel to, so tapping into that reason should serve as the inspiration for your photos.

For example, if you're traveling to Hawaii with your spouse because that's where you got married, your photos will have a much different look, feel, and meaning than photos you take on your guy trip with your college buddies.

The former might have a lot of warm colors that are indicative of love, plenty of sunset on the beach shots, and portraits of your significant other.

The latter, meanwhile, might focus more on fun or silliness and be more about the process of the fishing trip.

The point is that every trip has a purpose, and tapping into that purpose will help you create images that have much more meaning.

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Research Your Destination Backward and Forward

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A mistake that many photographers make when they travel is merely sticking to the "hot spots" or touristy spots while on their trip.

And while some destinations might necessitate this for safety reasons, by and large, when you travel, getting off the beaten path will help you find more ways to make more meaningful photos.

This starts by researching your destinations in great detail.

Do research online. Ask other photographers for advice regarding where you should go with your camera. Read travel brochures and books. Get input from the locals.

Start your research early, well before you even book your trip, and don't stop asking questions and seeking out interesting people, places, and things to photograph once you're at your destination.

Tap Into Your Feelings

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One of the great challenges of creating photographs is doing so in a way that helps the viewer feel the same thing you did when you took the photo.

That's why it's so important for you to tap into those feelings and recognize how a place or an experience effects you in the moment - and capture that feeling with your camera.

You can create photos that evoke feelings by thinking of a few specific things.

First, where do your eyes go first when you come upon a new scene? Find that "it factor" that grabbed your attention and make sure that it's prominent in your photos so it grabs the viewer's attention as well.

Then, zero in on things like smells or how the air feels or the way people move about the scene.

Again, using these first impressions and experiences as fuel for your travel photography fire will help you tap into the things that made visiting the area so special, and also help you capture images of those things so others can experience it as well.

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Take Lots of Photos (and Lots of Different Kinds, Too)

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What might help you create a wealth of meaningful travel photos the most is to simply have your camera at all times, make photography a priority, and take lots of photos of lots of different things.

It's not like there won't be a wide range of subjects to photograph, either, so taking lots of photos of lots of different things is actually quite an easy task when you're traveling.

Not every photographer is great at photographing every kind of subject, and that's okay.

The point when you're traveling is to give different genres - like landscapes, portraits, architecture, and street photography - a try.

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Something that will help you tackle these different kinds of photography is being prepared with the right gear.

Obviously you need a good camera and a couple of lenses. A lightweight yet solid travel tripod is a good idea to have as well.

I also strongly suggest that travel photographers load up on lens filters that will help them create better and more varied types of photos.

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When I travel, I always have my Formatt-Hitech Travel Filter Kit with me because it has the most popular types of lens filters that help me create better photos.

That includes two ND filters for creating beautiful long exposures of landscapes and cityscapes.

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Also included is a soft edge graduated ND filter for managing bright skies when photographing landscapes, and if you get the 100mm kit, you also get a polarizing filter to help reduce glare off of non-metallic surfaces and boost the contrast in the sky.

And since this kit was designed with the help of master travel photographer Elia Locardi, you know that combined with Formatt-Hitech's reputation for making the best filters on the market that you're getting a top-notch travel photography kit.

Taking great travel photos isn't just about gear and it's not just about finding those off-the-beaten-path places.

Instead, creating a portfolio of beautiful, memorable images requires that you think about why you chose to visit this place, to dive deep into research of the locations you visit, and to consider how those places make you feel, too.

If you can do all that, I think you'll find that your photos have much more to say!



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Ugly Truths of Landscape Photography

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Sure, photos like the one above are stunning, and when you capture and create photos like this, all the hard work of landscape photography is well worth it.

But it's a mistake to think that landscape photography is easy...

In fact, there are some ugly truths of landscape photography and just how difficult it is!

Let's explore a few of these landscape photography truths and see how you can work around them to get a great shot.

Ugly Truths of Landscape Photography: There are No Ideal Camera Settings

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If you've been on a quest to figure out the best landscape photography camera settings, you're in for a surprise - there are none!

Every landscape is different, and more to the point, landscapes change from one moment to the next due to changes in sunlight, cloud cover, the presence or absence of rain or snow, and so forth.

So, the camera settings that work great at the start of the day might not be so great later on. You'll have to adapt the landscape photography camera settings you use to each situation.

The best thing you can do is learn how to control exposure settings so you understand what you need to change in order to maintain a correct exposure, even as the lighting conditions and weather changes.

Start that process by getting familiar with basic camera settings as outlined in the video above by Big Photo TV.

Quick Tip: One of the easiest methods for understanding what camera settings to use for different weather conditions is the Sunny 16 Rule. Basically, the Sunny 16 Rule states that on a sunny day, when shooting at f/16, to get a good exposure, the shutter speed and ISO values will be the inverse of each other. So, if you set your shutter to 1/200 seconds, the ISO would be 200. Learn about the Sunny 16 Rule in this detailed guide.

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Ugly Truths of Landscape Photography: Mother Nature is Working Against You

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Okay, so that might be a bit of a dramatic headline, but you have to admit that sometimes it seems like mother nature isn't at all interested in you taking her picture.

On the one hand, weather can often hamper our efforts, with fog and rain and hail and snow getting in the way of taking beautiful photos.

On the other hand, normal, everyday occurrences in nature can derail your best efforts.

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One of the most common landscape photography problems you might encounter is when the sun causes strong glare off of ponds, lakes, streams, and other bodies of water.

 

Editor's Tip: Get Kenko’s latest updates and access to promos for discounted gear. Click here to sign up.

 

Of course, that glare is hugely distracting, and takes away from the beauty of the rest of the scene.

Fortunately, you have a secret weapon at your disposal that can help you get around this issue - a circular polarizer.

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Polarizing filters block out glare, as shown above, so by simply attaching a polarizer to your lens, you can continue shooting without the worry of distracting glare, even when mother nature isn't exactly cooperating.

Polarizers work best when you're at a 45-degree angle to the sun, so bear that in mind as you work to get the shot.

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As an added bonus, polarizers, like the Kenko Nyumon polarizer that I use (shown above), also have other benefits:

  • Polarizing filters boost contrast in the sky. This makes the atmosphere a deeper blue and clouds a brighter white. The result is a much more impactful sky in your landscape photos.
  • Polarizing filters minimize atmospheric haze. This is important because with a polarizer, distant landscape elements appear to be cleaner and crisper in the shot.

Additionally, the anti-glare properties of a polarizer aren't just limited to bodies of water. In fact, polarizers reduce glare off of anything that's non-metallic, so wet foliage, wet rocks, heck, even wet skin won't have glare if you use a polarizer.

Editor's Tip: Not all polarizing filters are made alike. Many cheap polarizers use lower-quality glass, which can reduce the sharpness of the image. Likewise, some polarizing filters have chunky filter housings, which can cause unwanted vignetting, particularly when shooting with a wide-angle lens. I use the KENKO NYUMON CIRCULAR POLARIZING FILTER because it's made of high-quality Japanese glass for superb sharpness and it has a slim filter ring so vignetting is not an issue.

Ugly Truths of Landscape Photography: Photoshop Cannot Save You


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Don't get me wrong - Photoshop, Lightroom, and other post-processing software offer tons of features and tools that allow you to do much more with your photos than would otherwise be possible.

But these programs cannot make a bad photo into a good photo. The basis of a great shot has to be there, and then you can use these programs to enhance the good stuff that's already there.

There's a second part of this ugly truth, too - Photoshop isn't exactly easy to learn.

I've been in photography for decades now, and there's still things I don't know how to do in Photoshop. If it can be a mystery at times to pros, it's easy to understand why beginners can get so frustrated with Photoshop.

Obviously, the key here is to learn how to use Photoshop to edit landscape photos. The video above by Peter Zelinka is a good place to start.

Another option is to use Lightroom instead of Photoshop. If you read our Lightroom vs Photoshop expose, you'll find that Lightroom is easier to learn, has all the essential editing tools you'll need, and it has a built-in library, so you can keep all your photos neatly organized.

No matter what post-processing program you use, just remember that it's best to learn the necessary skills to get a good shot in-camera, and then edit it to bring out its full glory, not try to rely on post-processing to rescue a bad shot.

Quick Tip: Photoshop and Lightroom aren't the only viable post-processing options. There are many free alternatives to Photoshop, including GIMP, which has virtually all the same editing tools and even features a similar workspace layout. If you primarily use your smartphone for photography, there's no shortage of landscape photography apps for your phone, either. Use these tools to assist you in creating your photos, not to try to save them, and you'll find improved success!

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Use Long Exposures to Create More Unique Landscape Photos

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If you're like me, you're always searching for new and interesting ways to create unique landscape photos.

And though long exposure landscape photography might sound like something that's reserved just for the pros, it's much easier than you might think.

All you need is some essential gear and some know-how to get started. From there, it just takes practice!

The Case for Long Exposures: Creativity

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Every photographer goes through it - the ups and downs that coincide with your successes and failures behind the lens.

One day you might be riding a wave of joy as you inspect the photos you take and find that they are every bit as epic as you hoped.

But the next day you might have absolutely nothing to show for your efforts and wonder why you even bother to take photos in the first place...

One way to try to even out the highs and lows of landscape photography is to try new things, like long exposures!

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If you take the same photos of the same landscapes every single time you go out to shoot, you're bound to get bored.

What's more, your photos will become far too repetitive and you'll quickly lose interest in what you're shooting.

But if you vary your techniques - long exposures this time, macro landscape photography next time, sunsets after that, and so on, you'll be more likely to keep those creative juices flowing.

What's not to like about that?

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Long Exposure Landscape Photography Puts a New Spin on Familiar Subjects

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Living in Southern California, I have the luxury of being a short drive from the beach, the mountains, the desert, downtown L.A., and just about any other type of landscape or cityscape one could imagine.

But not everyone has that sort of diversity of subject matter just a few minutes from their front door.

That's why long exposure photography is so great because it allows you to create a completely different-looking shot of a subject that you've photographed a million times.

The image above, for example, is a perfectly fine shot.

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But as you can see in this photo, when you introduce long exposures to the situation, you get a much different result.

In this case, the indicated movement of the clouds and the waves crashing on the beach gives this image an ethereal, dreamy look.

So, not only can extending the shutter speed help you be more creative, but it can also help you find new ways to photograph the same subject matter.

Learn More:

How to Get More Unique Landscape Photos: Gear Up

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The key to getting quality long-exposure photos is in the gear that you use.

There are a number of must-haves that make long exposure landscape photography a possibility.

You need a camera and lens, obviously, as well as a solid tripod to keep your camera as still as possible throughout the long exposure. You also need a remote shutter release so you can trigger the shutter without actually touching the camera. This aids in keeping the camera still.

But perhaps the most important accessory for long exposure landscapes is a high-quality neutral density filter.

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Neutral density filters, like the Firecrest ND Filter Kit shown above from Formatt-Hitech, have a solid coloration throughout the filter, meaning it has a consistent level of light-stopping power.

By reducing the amount of light that enters the camera's lens, neutral density filters allow you to achieve the slow shutter speeds required to get the gorgeous blur you see in long exposure photos.

What's great about the Firecrest line of neutral density filters is that they are hyper neutral.

That is, with a rare earth metal coating, these things give you gorgeous results with not aberrations or color casts.

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What's more, these filters are constructed of Schott Superwite glass, meaning they're highly durable and will stand the test of time.

In addition, each filter has a multicoating that's bonded to the middle of the filter, giving it supreme scratch resistance.

Filters are a crucial component of long exposure photography, so you want to be sure to invest in filters that will give you the best results.

I've used Formatt-Hitech filters for years, and I can attest to their quality and ease of use!

For more details about neutral density filters and how to take epic long exposures, check the Learn More links below for detailed guides.

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When to Use (and Not to Use) a Polarizer

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Polarizer

Read just about any photography tutorial having to do with polarizer filters, and you'll be told that they are an essential piece of gear, particularly for landscape photographers.

There are a number of reasons for that, which I'll outline in just a moment.

But there are also situations in which you shouldn't use a polarizer, and understanding when not to use one is just about as important as knowing when to use one.

Let's take a look at a few scenarios to help you get a better understanding of how to get the most out of your polarizer.

When to Use a Polarizer Filter?

The beauty of polarizers is that they solve all sorts of problems with outdoor photography...

To Cut Down Glare

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If there's water in the scene, a polarizer will minimize the glare from the sun off the surface of the water.

Not only does this improve the look and feel of the image by not having a bright glare to distract the eye, but if the water is shallow, a polarizer allows you to actually see into the water.

That's an obvious benefit regardless, but especially if you're using water as foreground interest because the viewer will be able to see what lurks beneath the water's surface.

Additionally, polarizers eliminate reflections off of wet surfaces you might encounter in a landscape, like rocks or leaves along a body of water.

That means you get deeper, more saturated colors, again without the distraction of the sun's glare.

To Use Slower Shutter Speeds

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What some photographers don't know is that a polarizer will actually let you use a slower shutter speed than usual.

Now, a polarizer certainly isn't going to give you the same light-stopping power as a neutral density filter will...

But you can get a couple more clicks of shutter speed to get those gorgeous, milky water effects like you see in the image above. 

To Make Clouds Pop

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I know I've encountered my fair share of gorgeous landscapes that were unfortunately under a bright sky with little definition and color.

But a polarizer helps rectify that problem...

Not only does a polarizer add definition to bright clouds, but it also helps deepen the blue color of the sky.

That's because a polarizer also helps minimize haze which is all too common - be it from smog, smoke from forest fires, fog, or a temperature inversion.

As a result, a polarizer is helpful for making the sky an asset in your landscape photos, rather than being the low spot of the shot due to lack of color and definition.

When NOT to Use a Polarizer

So now that you understand the benefits of using a polarizer for landscape photography, it's time to consider when using a polarizer is actually not such a good idea.

When You Want a Highlight Wet Surfaces

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Sometimes, eliminating the glare of wetness on landscape elements is actually detrimental to the shot.

After all, that wetness can add just a touch of soft reflection that gives the image a bit more depth and interest to the photo. Likewise, sometimes you might not want to see through water and instead use it to reflect the scene, as is the case in the image above.

The key here is to pick and choose when to remove the polarizer...

If you find that the reflections are too intense or distracting, use the polarizer. If they are subtle and soft, think about continuing to shoot without a polarizer.

Low Light Situations

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As noted earlier, polarizers reduce the amount of light entering your lens, so naturally, if you're shooting in dim lighting, a polarizer isn't going to get you the results you want.

Heavily forested scenes, canyons, or shooting at dusk are situations that immediately come to mind in which you should go without the polarizer.

Likewise, if you're out at night shooting things like the night sky, a polarizer won't do you any favors.

For example, if you're photographing the moon, having a polarizer will only force your camera to use a longer shutter speed or a higher ISO. Instead, remove the polarizer and speed up the shutter to avoid star trails (or extend the shutter to get star trails) and minimize the ISO to minimize digital noise in the shot.

When Light Has Intense Color

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When there is a lot of color going on, such as at sunset, removing the polarizer from your lens can actually help your shot.

This is because that color will be reflected off of any wet surfaces in the image.

So, if you're shooting a sunset at a beach, going without a polarizer will allow you to incorporate the gorgeous, color-filled reflected light off of any rocks protruding from the water. What's more, near sunset when the light is a nice golden color as seen above, going without a polarizer helps you highlight that color.

That, in turn, helps make for a more dramatic image with more color and light in the photo.

When Photographing Rainbows

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Even though a rainbow isn't just reflected light (it's also due to refraction and dispersion of light), a polarizer will still minimize its appearance in your photos.

That means that if you're shooting a scene with a rainbow, remove your polarizer and shoot without.

You'll find that the rainbow is far more intense and vibrant without it!

Final Thoughts

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As you can see, there are plenty of situations in which a polarizer shouldn't be used.

Of course, there are plenty of situations in which having a polarizer is critical, too.

Even though you shouldn't use a polarizer all the time, it's still an incredibly valuable tool to have at your disposal, especially for landscape photography.

Of course, like most photography gear, you don't want to outfit yourself with something cheap. Instead, you want a high-quality polarizer filter that helps you produce excellent images while offering you years of durable service as well.

Firecrest Circular Polarizer

That sort of quality is found in the circular polarizing filter by Formatt-Hitech pictured above.

With a Firecrest anti-reflective multicoating, these polarizing filters ensure that your photos have the highest level of contrast and color fidelity.

Better still, these polarizers come in a SuperSlim or UltraSlim rotating polarizer ring, so they don't get in the way of the shot or cause vignetting.

With sizing options for 39-127mm lenses, these polarizing filters are compatible with a wide variety of gear too.

And best of all, you get a solid polarizing filter without spending an arm and a leg! What's not to like about that?



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Your Guide to Neutral Density Filters

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If you've never used neutral density filters before, you're missing out.

In fact, along with a polarizing filter and a couple of graduated neutral density filters, neutral density filters are must-haves for any landscape photographer.

The two primary benefits of neutral density filters is that they allow you to control the light entering your lens and as a result of that, you can also have more control over your shutter speed.

With that in mind, let's explore what neutral density filters do in more detail.

Editor's Note: To explore these concepts, we'll be using Formatt-Hitech neutral density filters as examples. Formatt-Hitech has a reputation for making some of the best ND filters on the market, with true neutral colors for beautiful results. You can explore their complete line of filters by visiting their website.

What the Heck is a Neutral Density Filter, Anyway?

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As I noted above, a neutral density filter's purpose is to limit how much light enters your camera's lens.

Neutral density filters are measured in terms of their strength. Their strength indicates how much light that the filter blocks out.

A 0.3 or ND2 filter has one stop of strength. A 0.6 or ND4 filter has two stops of strength, a 0.9 or ND8 filter has three stops of strength, and so on.

The higher the number, the greater the light-stopping power. The 16-stop ND filter shown above, for example, is extremely dark.

Filter Sizes and Shapes

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ND filters come in various sizes, which are meant to accommodate different sizes of lens.

Naturally, the larger the lens you use, the bigger the filter you'll need to cover the lens glass.

This is especially important if you opt for a circular ND filter, as it will screw onto the threads on the end of your lens. When shopping for a circular ND, you need to ensure you get the precise size of filter to fit the lens.

There are also rectangular ND filters available. These filters slide into a filter holder that mounts to the lens.

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What are ND Filters Used For?

The whole point of using an ND filter is to have greater control over the shutter speed.

Specifically, by using an ND filter, you can use a much longer shutter speed than what would normally be possible, allowing you to introduce movement into your images.

For example, in a typical landscape photography situation, you might use a shutter speed of around 1/125 seconds, assuming that you're shooting during the daylight hours.

At that speed, any movement in the shot will be frozen in time. Sometimes, though, you might want to slow the shutter down to get blurry effects in the clouds or water.

By adding an ND filter in front of your camera's lens, you are able to block out light to achieve the longer shutter speeds needed for that blurry effect seen in the image above.

These long exposures can add a dramatic and dynamic effect to your images, and the longer the exposure the more dramatic the effect can be.

Depending upon the speed of the moving feature in the landscape, you might only need a couple of seconds to get a nice blur. In those situations, a two-stop or three-stop filter might suffice.

In other situations in which you want significant blur, you might need a six-stop, a 10-stop or even a 16-stop filter to get the look you want.

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Not All ND Filters are Alike

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Just like different ND filters have different effects on the images you take, different brands of ND filters produce different quality images.

If you buy a cheap, bargain-basement filter, you'll end up disappointed with images that might have color casts or other aberrations due to the poor quality of the filter.

That's why we recommend you work with ND filters that are known for quality, like those from Formatt-Hitech.

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Their Firecrest line of ND filters are second-to-none.

Unlike other companies that use dyed resin to make their filters, Formatt-Hitech uses a rare earth metal coating that results in a hyper-neutral ND filter.

Made of Schott Superwite glass, these filters are strong, durable, and have a multicoating that's bonded in the middle to improve the filter's resistance to scratches.

These filters are neutral across all spectrums of light, too, including visible light, UV light, and infrared.

In other words, if you want the best results, you need to get the best filters.

You wouldn't buy a cheap lens and expect to get the sharpest, clearest results. So why would you buy a cheap filter and expect to get something top-notch?!

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