It’s just about at the season where we all starting hitting the road. Memorial Day is right around the corner!
Hope you have your tickets, are all gassed up, or just have the itinerary laid out.
Here is a round-up of a few things that may help you enjoy your trip just a little bit more.
Plus some of these items are good, right around the local front.

Twelve South Air Fly

Soundcore Translating Ear Pods

Anker Mag Safe battery, 10,000 mAh

Ulanzi MagSafe Phone Stand

Rolling Square Multi Tip charging cable

Rolling Square AirCard Pro

First up is one of my all time faves, the Twelve South Air Fly
When you are on the plane, might as well enjoy the carriers content wirelessly!
Seats are not getting any bigger, and not being tangled up in wires is the best!
Blue Tooth connect your headphones, and you are free as a bird.

You know, I will not use airpods on a plane, too easy to lose, and seat mates can hear the sound spill, so choose your over ear earphones with care.
Personal fave is the Sony.
But… last year Anker came out with a set in their SoundCore line for under $70, that has surprised me for its superb audio quality, and features. Highly recco!
And the AirFly can also be used in the car, as you can BT connect your phone, and hear your fave podcasts, or music lists.
I give these out as gifts, and they are the best!

One other new travel item just came in:
The Soundcore AeroFit 2   is not only a solid ear pods set, but most importantly for those traveling to another country, it has AI translation!  Highly rated on consumer reviews as swell

I am low key obsessed with these! Not only superior sound and 4 mics, and comfortable, it will allow you to translate up to 100 languages! They can speak in their language, you hear it translating in your ears, and then hit a speak button on the app, speak you language and the speaker on your phone will do the translation. I have used this with people who work in my building, and at a local Mexican restaurant  and confirm it works like crazy! Plus the case is magsafe so you can charge without wires.

Remember the Seinfeld episode where Elaine a was being trashed by the attendants in the nail salon in their language? Yeah, this could solve that little issue.

Now I’m looking to use this on the subway so I can understand those around me.

If you are flying, we have seen flight delays becoming a common occurrence.
You need to keep your phone charged, if for nothing else, to get notices about your flight.
The smallest best battery that is always with me is this mag safe Anker battery with a whopping 10K mAh on board to keep you going.

If you are needing to charge your laptop, I’d suggest a move up to this Anker power brick.

Yep, heavier no doubt, but is has all of the juice you’ll need to power up all your devices, while you wait to board. And TSA approved!

Another unit that is always in my bag is this Ulanzi Carabiner with mag safe. Folds, lets me do a hands free phone zoom call, or watch content while dining alone.

It folds flat, and then opens up to hold your phone so you can be hands free to do a zoom call, watch content, or just scroll while having the phone securely held.

One thing that is always in my bag is the Rolling Square Multi-Tip charging cable. Basically with this, I know I always have the right connection. There is a magnet at the tips so it always stays tight and never tangles.

We all have tracking tags in our bags, and when you want one in your wallet, without a bulge, or just need a slim tracker, this new Rolling Square AirCard Pro is a great call and super affordable. Not only is a nice, loud audible device, it is rechargeable, with each charge lasting up to 12 months. AirCard™ Pro comes with an ultra-flat wireless charging lithium 220mAh battery. When it runs out of power, simply place AirCard Pro on a wireless charger and wait around 1 hour and 30 minutes for it to be fully charged and ready to track your valuables again. it also has a QR code you can customize with your contact details and use as a digital business card, or just as a lost and found extra info if someone found your item.

Thin, rechargeable, works with Find My, and QR code for contact info. Yes, works great with iPhone or Android!

So there you have a few items that can make your travels a bit easier, and they all pack small and play big!

I have used them all and do just what they say they will.

For these lists I only tell you about items I have actually used, so trust in that. Of course you can always return items from any of the stores that are linked in the photos!

AIPAD has wrapped for another year — and if you’ve ever made the pilgrimage, you know this isn’t just another art fair. It’s the photo fair. The world’s longest-running, and one of the most thoughtfully curated, now set beautifully within the walls of the historic Park Avenue Armory.
With 78 galleries from across the globe, the fair brought together an exceptional array of vintage masterpieces and contemporary visionaries. It was a heady experience for any lover of photography — a place where 19th-century daguerreotypes shared space with today’s lens-based provocateurs.
We spent multiple days wandering the halls (link to day 1 impressions here), and here’s what stood out:

Larry Fink’s work, showcased by MUUS Collection, was a powerful highlight. Seeing his raw, soulful imagery in a dedicated space was a reminder of what photography can do at its most honest. And if you’re hunting for the icons, they were well represented — timeless, familiar prints that still stop you in your tracks.
But the story wasn’t just about the past. Contemporary voices were loud and clear, with a strong spotlight on women artists. One of my favorites from last year, Sharon Walters was back with new works, and it was inspiring to see her evolution firsthand.

Continue Reading »

Ahh Springtime!
It brings cherry blossoms, beautiful weather, and one of my favorite events of the year:
AIPAD or the Association of International Photographic Art Dealers, gather photo dealers from around the world exhibiting, and yes selling, some of the finest vintage and contemporary work. It runs from April 23 – 27 and is situated at the  Park Avenue Armory 643 Park Avenue, New York, NY. 

I have to mention that this year the solid amount of photo booksellers are in a concentrated area within the full mix of the galleries,
Not only will you be seeing some incredible work, you can also take home unique, and classic books.

Returning to the iconic Park Avenue Armory, you are greeted by this image as you enter.

On an initial walk through, I have always believed in my gut reactions to the work. Continue Reading »

It’s been 20 years since March of the Penguins first gave us a closer look at the lives of those icons of the ice.
Fast forward two decades, and National Geographic is back with a brand-new series that dives even deeper into their world – and this time, it’s not just icebergs.
Introducing Secrets of the Penguins – a visually stunning, emotionally rich 3-part series guided by none other than Bertie Gregory, one of the most passionate wildlife cinematographers working today, and a BAFTA and Emmy® Award-winning wildlife cinematographer.

Premiering first on Nat Geo 4/20, then will be available the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.

Bertie Gregory standing on a box with a drone remote in his hand, with Callum Stronach as a spotter. (credit: National Geographic/Ben Joiner)

The timing of this series premiere is apropos of coinciding with Earth Day on April 22..
Penguins are considered key indicators of the oceans health. 
I encourage everyone to do a deep dive into this subject, and then when you screen the 3 episode, you will have a greater understanding of these creatures place in the global ecosystem.
Here is just one article on the subject. Continue Reading »

It’s a subject that continues to fascinate the masses.The disaster of the sinking of the Titanic.
(And no, DiCaprio is not part of this one.)

TITANIC: THE DIGITAL RESURRECTION premieres Friday, April 11, at 9/8c on National Geographic, streaming the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.

For three full weeks, 24 hours a day, two high-tech imaging vehicles scanned and captured the Titanic wreck and the vast debris field surrounding it.

Continue Reading »

One of my favorite companies that create products in the mobile space is ShiftCam.
Utilizing the mag safe feature, they have created a system giving you the tools you need to make the content you post in an accessible, and well built gear set. They also make a set of high quality lenses which can be attached to your phone via an adaptor that works on all phones. The full monty!

OK, it may feel like  a commercial but I am a huge fan! (vid was from an Indigogo campaign, but lays it all out!)

One of their more recent products is the SnapStudio Light, that you saw in the video.

Continue Reading »

The choices out there for listening to audio, and speaking on calls can be overwhelming.

When I’m working on a project and just want to shut everything out and concentrate, earpods are the way. No question. When I need to do a call, that’s when the power of the pods with their mic capabilities kick in.
I’ve tried a ton of them!
Apple, Urbanista, JLab, Sony, HP, and the list goes on. All quality, but not for everything.

And you know that none of these will last forever. The amount of times you can charge them are limited due to the batteries. It’s just science.
When those run their lifespan, where do you pivot to?
I keep a range of options on my desktop, yet each one has had failings during important calls. I have switched out 3 sets of ear pods during one long zoom, and that is no lie.  Admittedly, Over Ear Headsets made for calls have always made me feel like a telemarketer, yet allowed the advantage of being able to listen to the outside world while on a call.
Plus those are designed to be used on these type of calls.

Poly/HP has come out with a great solution in the Voyager Legend 50 UC: just about as small as an over ear pod, yet has a more directional mic, higher quality voice output, and you get one ear open to be aware of your surroundings.

Continue Reading »

The Fuji x100v has been the camera I carry when I’m out for a simple walkabout in the city.
Fixed lens, leaf shutter, 26 MP, articulated screen, classic Fujifilm film simulations, and ability to slip it into my pocket. Keeps it simple, and lightweight.
When they teased this new camera, the GFX100RF, the hairs on the back of my neck reared up, and my wallet was ready to open.

So, it’s an interesting proposition:
102MP, Medium format, FIXED lens, and a footprint smaller than a GFX, and a fixed lens 35 mm f/4 lens (35mm equivalent 28mm).
A very specific camera, indeed, with some very unique features.

Continue Reading »

Everyday, my inbox gets filled with info on new gear, books, exhibitions, events and more. And I love it all!

When this survey came in from Fujifilm, it was a refreshing look at the heart of photography, and how it affects us, honestly getting to the reason we all do it, or began to make photographs.

You may read this survey, and say, yep, knew that. Here is the data that should ring true with all of us.

So before I go through my photos to post a memory for #TBT on Thursday, this data gives it another thoughtful element.

Nearly 8 in 10 Americans Say Viewing Old Photos Brings Happiness and Calm with More than Half Experiencing Reduced Anxiety
New data from Fujifilm and Dr. Lauren Cook reveals photos as powerful tools in promoting positive emotions, connection and resilience.

VALHALLA. N.Y. – MARCH 19, 2025 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation, a pioneer in the photography and imaging industry, has partnered with clinical psychologist and mental health expert Dr. Lauren Cook to unveil findings from Frame of Mind, a new survey highlighting the profound impact photography has on emotional well-being1. With more than 3 in 4 respondents agreeing that looking through old photos brings them happiness and calm, the survey, commissioned by Fujifilm, underscores the idea that photos—whether taken, shared, or simply looked at—aren’t just snapshots: they are powerful tools to promote happiness, connection, and resilience for people of all ages.

Photography: A Portal to Joy and Connection

Across demographics, the Frame of Mind survey found that 74% of respondents look at photos to relive personal memories, often evoking feelings of joy and connection. Revealing that many Americans view photography as an important part of their emotional health, photos were found to inspire more smiles (64%), reduce anxiety (58%) and help people feel uplifted (49%).
“Photos act as emotional anchors, grounding us in moments of happiness and connection,” remarks Dr. Cook. “What we’ve found here is that taking a few minutes a day to look through our photos or snap some pics can be a great form of self-care and bring us more joy than things we’ve turned to in the past like shopping, reading, gardening or even journaling.”
Whether digital or printed, the emotional impact of photos is more profound than we may realize. Nearly 3 in 4 Americans (71%) agreed that looking at their own photos brings more happiness than scrolling through social media. 84% also said they’re more likely to laugh and smile when they see their old pictures.

The Importance of Social Connections and Mental Health

Photography’s power isn’t limited to individual well-being—it’s also a key tool for maintaining social connections. Sharing photos helps 71% of people stay in touch with friends, and 66% use them to feel closer to loved ones.
1 The Frame of Mind Survey is an online survey of US-based consumers ages 18-77 and representative of the US population conducted in November/December 2024 by Fujifilm MROC.

“Photography provides a shared language for expressing our emotions, whether we’re celebrating an achievement, sharing a challenge or simply staying connected with others,” Dr. Cook adds. “This act of sharing photos, especially in times of emotional need, can bolster our sense of belonging and community—critical components of emotional well-being.”

Additional Frame of Mind Key Findings:
*Memory Preservation and Joy: 74% of respondents take photos to preserve everyday moments, while 68% document major milestones.
*More Enjoyment in the Mundane: 71% agree that taking photos increases the enjoyment of an activity.
*Comfort at Home: 8 in 10 people believe displaying photos in their living spaces contributes to greater happiness and comfort.
*A Creative Outlet: 72% of respondents use photography as a form of self-expression, finding joy in capturing and sharing their unique perspectives.
*A Moment of Levity in Times of Grief: 65% of respondents find solace in photos during times of grief and 42% say revisiting old photos is a go-to strategy for cheering themselves up.

Fujifilm’s Commitment to Emotional Well-being Through Photography

“We are more connected through photos than ever before, and the emotional and social benefits they bring, as shown by these survey results, cannot be overstated,” noted Bing Liem, Division President, Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “Photography, in all its forms, is a powerful tool for emotional well-being and our commitment to preserving memories and enhancing human connections through this medium has never been stronger.”  For more than nine decades, Fujifilm has been at the forefront of innovation in the imaging industry, driven by the belief that photos are much more than pictures—they are reflections of who we are and the connections we cherish. Fujifilm is committed to its purpose of bringing the world more smiles by fostering opportunities for personal expression, connection and joy through the power of photography.
“Whether you are capturing a spontaneous moment or reliving a cherished memory Fujifilm is proud to continue to lead the way in providing individuals with the means to capture, share, and relive moments that bring joy and fulfillment,” added Liem.

About The Survey
The Frame of Mind survey was conducted by MarketVision Research. Findings are based on a survey conducted during 11/25/2024 – 12/4/2024 among 2,014 US-based respondents representative of the U.S. general population. The margin of error is +/- 2.2 at the 95% confidence level.

Netflix has created a new vision of the world called The Electric State with the Russo Brothers directing:

It’s set in a retro world where robots have taken over from the humans, and then there are the underground robots who support the humans.

Basically, you have a story of a woman whose brother has been abducted by the bad guy into a linchpin due to his intellect, to complete the robot takeover, and her search for him. He shares her search as a robot, Cosmo, channeling the real boy.

The Electric State. (L to R) Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown) and Keats (Chris Pratt) in The Electric State. Photo Credit: Paul Abell, ©2024 Netflix, Inc.

The film is based on the graphic novel by Simon Stålenhag with a screenplay written by Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely.

The adventure of her seeking out her flesh and blood brother, coupled with the characters met along the way, is almost a wizard of Oz type journey.
But it’s not.
The complexity of the human characters and their relationships to the comically branded bots, who are there to help them on the journey, becomes the threads of the movie.

Now, having most of the characters be CG, and created via incredibly talented mocap actors (mocap = motion capture suits with tracking dots all over them to be replaced in post) is a feat, and adding in an emotional quality with the interaction between them and the live actors will bring you into this world, and you’ll buy it all.

Millie Bobbie Brown, especially, has tender moments with her brother as bot, bringing the storyline to new levels.

The Electric State. Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown) with Cosmo (voiced by Alan Tudyk) in The Electric State. ™/© 2024 Netflix. Used with permission

Chris Pratt as the “good guy/scoundrel”, brings his charm we’ve seen in his more recent roles in the Jurassic series.

The Electric State. (L to R) Colonel Bradbury (Giancarlo Esposito) and Ethan Skate (Stanley Tucci) in The Electric State. ™/© 2024 Netflix. Used with permission

Stanley Tucci as the evil manipulator, couldn’t be better cast. Do all actors love a bad guy part?
Giancarlo Esposito is a guarantee for a great performance, and having him perform mainly as part of a CG armor, illustrates why he is a consummate performer. Oscar Winner Ke Huy Quan rounds out the human talent, in a pivotal backstory role.

The voice actors are stellar, and I’ll hold off naming them as you will have fun guessing the talent as you hear familiar voices.

OK, let’s get to the technical aspects.
The combination of live action and animation in this film breaks a barrier of connection.
With an incredible collaboration between the directors, VFX supervisor, DP, and designers, they have built a world bringing you into a seamless story of an adventure and search, and emotional connection.
Shot in only 84 days, Production designers Dennis Gassner and Richard L. Johnson and the production design team constructed more than 100 sets for the film over the course
of two-plus years.
Many of the film’s robots were designed by the production design team, and the VFX supervisor Matthew Butler, with his team, animated them in a true to life way.

The Director of Photography, Stephen Windon, comes with a major list of credits, as you can see via the link. An incredible cinematic achievement, as the combination between live actors and people in mocap suits, or animated, brings all of the skills to ensure a seamless storytelling environment.

This was shot with an Alexa s35, with Atlas Orion Anamorphic lenses, and mainly shot with one camera.
.
Most if this was shot in an abandoned mall in Atlanta with a major battle scene shot outdoors with the luck of having overcast light saving the need for huge lighting packages.

One of the main practical, or real props, was the Planters Mr. Peanut Mobile.

The Electric State. ™/© 2024 Netflix. Used with permission

When the Mr. Peanut character is introduced, it’s an immediate call back to a brand you know and love, and adding in the real Peanut Mobile, or NUTmobile, is a touch of authenticity that will just make you smile!

Actually, all throughout this move you will get your memory bank touched, and tapped, bringing you even closer to the story.
And if you are too young for those references, this is a family friendly movie that is accessible to all.

Overall, the challenge of engaging an audience into a story with so many CG characters, is massive.
They cast right. MBB does an incredible job.

There is one fun thing I will share: apparently Stanley Tucci had Pasta Fridays every week, where he would share his amazing culinary skills with the filmmakers during the production!

That’s the way to work on a film!

Now that you are into your 2025 travel plans, one thing that will always be in your bag is a charger for your essential devices:
Phone, Watch, and Ear Pods.

There have been a bunch out in the past, and I have tried em all! I think.

Anyway, there was a major change in the designs, thanks to the Apple iPhone feature that shows a clock when the phone has not been used in a while, called Nightstand.
You get to choose time , time with weather, full month calendar, etc.,and different fonts. Here is how to set that up.

When you check into a hotel room, setting the clock on the antiquated clock radio is a pain, so using your own device is the way to go.

What has now been incorporated into some of the chargers is a mag safe place for your phone that will show you that cool new screen at an angle.
Plus, if your smart watch has a bracelet instead of a strap, you need to hang it, or lean it on a charger shelf.
Then your ear pods should be able to be charged via mag safe while in the case, on a flat surface within the charger.

All makes sense?

So…
Here are 3 of the best options currently available, and from reputable brands

iWalk, Anker, and Mophie, each with pros and cons.

To start, the Anker 3-1 has a compact cube shape, with all charging stations either popping out, or tilting up.
Pros are the size, quality build, and pop out charger for the watch.

On the Mophie, the main pro is the size. With a slim profile, all features also pop out.
It comes with a carry case, housing the power cord, and room for an Air tag making sure you don’t leave it behind.

Only negative I found was when my Apple 14 Pro had its case on, it was a bit too close to my watch on the charging stand, as you can see here. Even without the case on the phone the watch screen was blocked. Honestly, with the clock on the phone no big deal, just was surprised.

All still charged fine, but the design was a little close for me.

Then we come to the iWalk.

With a cylindrical design, all the charging platforms follow the pop-out for the watch or tilt up for the phone.
I do prefer that pop out for the watch as I always know the watch is seated properly for charging, and if you have ever woken up to find that your watch was not charged, you know what I mean.
This unit also has a trick feature: If you wave your hand over a sensor behind the phone station, it will rotate from vertical to horizontal., with horizontal, being the preferred viewing for the clock feature.
I can see why the feature may be useful when used on a desk, if you are spending your time on TikTok, Stories, etc.

For me that feature will not be getting used.

So here you have 3 units of choice:

Overall, the iWalk wins for build, and price. Only about $56 currently on Amazon.

The Anker wins for great compact design, and watch charging shelf is a plus. It has the weight to be solid on any desktop or bedside table. Now on sale for $104.

The Mophie wins for size, and elegant case for all parts.  Top of the pricing at $150. 

Yes, each one of these uses a charging block, which you will need to bring with you, with each unit include with proper cables, and only the Mophie incorporates into a case.

Goldilocks tried 3 bowls of porridge and ended up on one.
I think each one of these travel chargers has its advantages, so choose the one that has the features you want, and the price point you feel comfortable with.

More real world reviews on the way, as fresh gear is being released in this new year.

Plus we are looking at how the tariff situation will affect your gear purchases.

When Photoinduced first came to be , there were a ton of videos posted on YouTube with product presentations, interviews, and a series I called: “What’s In The Bag?”

This series featured working pros, and gear they used to actually get the shot. Each photo had a few vids in their series, and I think everyone learned a ton! Including me!

The idea was to have a UGC look, and have each photog go through their camera bags  to share what gear they actually used, and why. Yep, most were HD at the time.

All of the vid are still up, and are here.

Video is coming back for 2025, and there will be notices!

Here is Katy Winn, fashion week photographer in one of the first episodes:

Questions/Comments?

Send me a note : [email protected]

There are major conferences every year that always inform/teach me. Cannes Lions, SXSW, and CES (consumer electronics show).

At its core, CES is a trade show. Brands and entrepreneurs gather with two main goals: to make sales or to find investors.

After attending CES for 17 years as media, I’ve picked up a thing or two about the show and the tech world in general. First and foremost: 90-95% of the products you see at CES will never make it to market. The ones that do usually end up being first-generation models—great for early adopters but more of a “wait and see” situation for the rest of us.

But what really draws me in year after year are the keynotes. They give a peek into the future of these companies—their vision, their plans, and the next generation of tech.
I still remember Bill Gates, at the tail end of his time at Microsoft, delivering a keynote in 2008. He showed off a phone that could scan your surroundings with the camera and overlay clickable business options in real-time. If you pointed the phone at a street, it would highlight all the nearby restaurants, with options to get more info. Mind-blowing. Fast forward to today, and I think we’re getting close to that kind of augmented reality in our hands, but back then, it felt like a glimpse into a very sci-fi future. Not quite flying cars type of future, but very cool useable tech.

The big keynote standouts this year were NVidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, whose presentation honestly broke my brain. The tools introduced for AI were powerful, and can’t wait to see them come to market. Here he is showing off a new super computer coming soon.

And then there was the Delta presentation at the Sphere with Ed Bastien, just because it was the first time anything like that had been done—and it was capped off by a 30-minute performance from Lenny Kravitz.

Also memorable was Linda Yaccarino’s talk,

along with Accenture’s CEO, Julie Sweet, both of which are available on YouTube now, and included here.

Oh, and Sony’s always a crowd favorite, especially this year when they finally allowed pre-orders for a car they had been teasing for years in cooperation with Honda.
It felt like a big moment. The most tech I’ve ever seen in a car. Would you brag to your friends that you’re driving a Sony?

But let’s be real—walking the show floor is always the most fun part. It’s where you encounter all those innovative products that you might not otherwise come across.

As media, we also get to attend three key events before the show officially opens: Pepcom, Showstoppers, and CES Unveiled. These events are my personal favorites because they give us the chance to handle and experience the products up close, and let’s be honest, get fed (always a bonus). Over the years, I’ve discovered some truly game-changing products at these events—things I use daily now.

Then there’s the C Space, the marketing section. It’s where the ad folks hang out, and while the discussions are always interesting, I feel like most of those conversations would be more productive if they were happening on the show floor, engaging with the actual products their clients are creating. Sure, it’s great to catch up with people, but nothing beats seeing and understanding the product and its vision firsthand.

Looking back, it’s funny to think about how things have changed since my first CES. Back then, we bloggers were treated like the red-headed stepchildren of the media world. We were shoved into a room with plastic-wrapped sandwiches and a pile of swag. But it didn’t take long for people to realize that bloggers had no corporate filter. We weren’t beholden to editors or PR teams. If something was great, we’d shout it from the rooftops; if it was awful, we’d call it out. That raw, unfiltered approach eventually led to bloggers being treated as real journalists. And it was then that the press room got an upgrade: quiet spaces for interviews, great Wi-Fi, more swag… and yes, more food.

As an ad guy, the insights I’ve gathered over the years at CES are invaluable. It’s not just about the tech. It’s about building relationships, understanding where industries are heading, and sometimes, just having fun with friends old and new. The trip’s a grind: two days of press events, a day and a half on the floor, and then it’s back home. But every year, I leave feeling inspired and energized for the year ahead.

Was there an AI presence? Of course there was! Especially in the NVidia presentation. It was presented as the tool that it is, and when you listen to the CEO of Accenture, Julie Sweet, you may get a clearer picture of how it may affect the workforce.

Here’s to CES #18 in 2026—can’t wait to see what’s next.

If you take a minute to look closely at the world around us, you’ll notice that it’s the things we don’t immediately see that actually hold some of the most fascinating stories about our universe. I’m talking about the tiny, hidden world of the smallest creatures that live all around us, which Disney+, and National Geographic have brought to life in the second series about these little inhabitants.

Yep, I’m talking about A Real Bug’s Life, Season 2, premiering Jan 15th on Disney+: check out the trailer here:

Sure, we’ve all seen the animated Bug Lifes movies before, but this time, you get to get real close to the actual bugs.

The show is split into four episodes, Love in the Forrest, Life’s a Beach, Tiny Heroes Down Under, and Once Upon A Pond,  where they take you up close and personal with bugs, creatures, and the different environments they call home. Jumping Spiders, Army Ants, Tiger Beetles, Orcas Bees (check out the drone footage on that one) Damsel Flys, all have a starring role in this series.

And the visuals are all thanks to some seriously talented cinematographers who know how to capture this hidden world in ways we often miss.

The series is narrated by none other than Awkwafina (yes, her!) and she takes you on a journey through the tiny lives of creatures—showing how they travel, build homes, evolve, and go through the cycles of life. As a filmmaker, I’m totally hooked on this show. After watching series like these, I usually do this thing where I try to break down the shots—basically reverse-engineering the whole film.

Lucky for me, I got to chat with Chris Watts,  a BAFTA-nominated cameraman who has worked on many productions ranging from TV to IMAX. He  was the lead cinematographer for the Once Upon A Pond episode.That one is especially interesting because it’s all about the bustling world inside one pond. A single location, with an amazing amount of things going on below the surface.

Director of Photography Chris Watts films common frogs gathering and spawning in a pond during a shoot for the “Once A Pond A Time” episode of “A Real Bug’s Life.” (National Geographic for Disney/Matt Haworth)

The number of creatures in one small area is mind-blowing, and thanks to some incredible camera work, we get to see their separate lives up close. They shot most of the underwater scenes with a Red Gemini camera, which is super sensitive to light—essential when you’re shooting underwater. And when they needed more light, they used Phantom Dragon lights, mounted on magic arms, floating in on a dinghy.

Director of Photography Chris Watts films young actor Menna throwing a sandwich into the pond for the “Once A Pond A Time” episode of “A Real Bug’s Life.” (National Geographic/Matt Haworth)

To make sure they didn’t disturb the water while filming, they also used underwater robots with motion control rigs to capture the action. Plus, they’d sometimes wade waist-deep into the pond and rely on a tech genius on the tam to make sure everything ran smoothly.

But honestly, what makes this series truly amazing isn’t just the tech—it’s the stories of these creatures. Each one has a beginning, middle, and end, just like us. Watching how they move through the world takes real skill and a lot of patience because, let’s be honest, the crew can’t control the creatures. All they can do is anticipate what might happen and work with whatever comes their way.There is one funny moment where they release one of the fastest bugs you’ve ever seen in front of the camera, hoping to capture its speed as it zips across a beach.  They got the shot!

Camera assistant Nick Widdop and camera operator Dale Hudson film during a beach shoot in Kota Kinabalu, Borneo for the “Life’s A Beach” episode of “A Real Bug’s Life.” (National Geographic/Euan Smith)

To be honest, they did recreate some environments to accommodate the cameras and lights needed to get the shot. You just can’t control the bugs.

Assistant producer Euan Smith, animal wrangler Tim Cockerill, and Director of Photography Rob Hollingworth film a praying mantis during a shoot for “The Big City” episode of “A Real Bug’s Life.” (National Geographic/Tom Oldridge)

So, if you’re looking for your next binge watch , dive into the tiny world of a bug’s life and prepare to be amazed. I definitely was!

There is  a lot of new gear coming in for the new year, as we look ahead to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in Jan 2025, and fresh product slates from most of the brands. Will be posting as they come in, and get some real world look at them
It’s true, there were some incredible deals during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and honestly still more on the way before years end. I hope you took advantage for gifts and end of year purchases.
Some great stuff in there!

Personally, I did pick up some extra batteries for my mirrorless, and handy mounts for camera and phone.

There was one solid purchase amidst all of the sale events.

The item I purchased wasn’t on sale, but that’s ok.  The DJI Pocket Osmo 3.

4K, portrait or landscape mode, all of the usual gimbals tracking choices, wireless connects to the DJI MIMO app to view or edit AND an incredible array of customization for picture and audio you will love.

Key Features

3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer, 1″ CMOS Sensor,  Up to 4K120 Resolution, 2″ Rotatable Screen, Smart Horizontal/Vertical Shooting, D-Log M & 10-Bit Support, Active Track 6.0, Up to 166 Minutes of Battery Life, USB-C PD Cable Included, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Support.

You can buy the unit alone, for about $520, and they offer a creator combo wth a lot of stuff you would be buying anyway, and you’ll save dough.  It is about $140 more. Highly recommend!

Here is what you get in the creator combo. The extra battery, microphone, and carrying bag made the most sense to me as an extra. The wide angle lens, which fits into the case, is not high on my list. you can see by the + sign what additional items you get.

I have added a few things, not in the creator combo that met some of my specific needs. BTW, do not forget one of the things on the list, the screen and lens protector. Only $9 and will give peace of mind as you take the camera in and out of the case. Here is my full personal list of additional things to get.

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is fast becoming my go-to camera for a variety of things:
On the street interviews:
A non obtrusive 4k video camera, with all the shooting bells and whistles I need, plus the ability to do a Blue Tooth connection to a phone for a larger monitor.
Speaking of the phone, which I prefer not to use in these situations. Why?
Have you ever had a video get interrupted by an incoming call or text?
I know, put it in airplane mode.
The Pocket 3 is a dedicated machine, designed to do what I need, multi format, and yes, have to send it to the phone app OR use a micro sd card reader to input it to your phone or an iPad for editing/upload.
And that’s not all.
Let’s talk about the DJI mic that connects automatically with the Pocket 3 when both are turned on. Plus a small tripod so you can sit it on a table.

It’s pretty great, and the mic has a 32 bit float, which will record the track to the mic itself as well as the Pocket 3. Comes with a fuzzy cat, can be clipped or mag attached. You can also plug in a lav mic if you’d like to be more discreet.
All sounding great right?
However, if you are just interviewing people on the street, maybe you don’t want to put the mic on someone you don’t know.
To solve this problem I added this $19 item that has a cold shoe, perfect for mounting a shotgun mic like a ShiftCam shotgun, which I like because it has a headphone jack on it so you can monitor the recording.
The mic needs a cable that goes from 3.5 TRS to TRRS, and then TRRS to USB-C to plug direct into the Pocket 3. The TRS to TRRS cable comes with the ShiftCam mic. The Apple connector you will need to add.

Here it is mounted: You can also add the extra battery if you’d like a longer handle.

That $19 expansion adapter also has the now classic 2 prong connector used by Go-Pro, so you can attach a ton of things to it, or grip it to another surface.

In the personal list above, I also added Apple in-ear  USB-C wired earphones to monitor recording when not using a shotgun mic like the ShiftCam. Great for private playback audio. You can actually record audio with them as well.

This camera is now in my bag at all times.

There was one other thing I wanted to do with this new workhorse.
How can I attach to my Rodecaster for podcasts so I use the Shure SM7B, have the sweet pre-amps, and also use the jingle pad for my pre-recorded music and sound effects?
I have the 1st version of the Rodecaster and have used it for over 120 podcasts, but 2025 will bring video with it, to enhance the podcast.
Could I attach traditional cameras and then sync everything in edit? Probably. I was looking for an easier solution. I’m a one man band.

After multiple calls with Rode, and hours at BH photo, I was told it couldn’t happen.

It Can!

This week I’ll post about the solution I found, and how it works. And it works like a champ!
Saved money, great video quality, excellent sound, and everything a tracking video gimbal all in one !

With a new feature called Product Showcase, the Pocket 3 will track the product close to the lens, and lock it in even without it being in center. No focus searching, or distracting oscillating.

As you can tell, I’m pretty happy with this purchase!  I also buy just about all of my photo/video gear from BH, because they stand by every product. During the holidays, they are allowing returns up to Feb!

True, I did get their credit card, PayBoo, as it saves me tax on every purchase. you should look into it.

As we enter this holiday season, one thing to remember, is those we love, and those we’ve lost. National Geographic and Disney, have created a documentary series, directed by Daniel Bogado, re-telling the story of this tragic event. It takes a special talent to sift through 300 hours of real documenting footage to tell a story of human depth, in the face of natures unrelenting devastating power. Streaming now

We are now approaching the 20th anniversary of one of the deadliest natural disasters in history—the Indian Ocean tsunami of December 26, 2004. And there’s a profound opportunity to pause and reflect. The scale of the devastation is still hard to fathom: over 250,000 people lost their lives, entire communities were wiped out, and the impact stretched across 14 countries. Yet, amid this heartbreaking tragedy, there are stories of incredible survival, resilience, and compassion that inspire us to be thankful.
We’ve all seen the Hollywood portrayal of this disaster, but the real stories are far more powerful. At a screening, we heard from one of the 2 brothers who survived, while losing their parents in this event.
That real world connection was palpable.

Tsunami: Race Against Time, a National Geographic series marking this anniversary, dives into the personal accounts of those who lived through it—the survivors, the scientists, the journalists, and the unsung heroes who risked their lives to save others. The series, crafted with painstaking care, uses 300 hours of archival footage, firsthand testimonies, and cutting-edge simulations to recreate the terror of that day.

Water and debris surround Banda Aceh’s Grand Mosque in the aftermath of the tsunami. A massive earthquake in the Indian Ocean sets off a tsunami which within minutes arrives in the bustling city of Aceh, causing unprecedented havoc and devastation. “Tsunami: Race Against Time” follows the desperate struggle to survive of people in Indonesia and Thailand caught in the unfolding catastrophe, as well as the scientists racing against time to warn the world. (Hotli Simanjuntak)

Gratitude in the Face of Tragedy
Why reflect on such a painful chapter in history? Because it calls for a deeper understanding of the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit. It invites us to be grateful—not just for what we have, but for the gift of life itself. The survivors, who recount the chaos, the fear, and the loss, also share stories of incredible bravery. Scientists worked tirelessly against the clock to understand the tsunami and warn the world; rescue workers faced impossible odds to save lives; and journalists reported in real time, bringing the magnitude of the disaster to the global stage.

What stands out in these stories isn’t just the pain, but the profound moments of connection, the acts of kindness, and the unyielding will to survive. Those who were fortunate enough to make it through that day live with a renewed appreciation for each precious moment they have. They know, more than most of us, how fleeting life can be.

The Race Against Time
The tsunami arrived without warning. Waves that reached up to 100 feet high rolled across the Indian Ocean, devastating coastlines from Indonesia to Sri Lanka to the east coast of Africa. In the hours that followed, scientists and experts worked with unprecedented urgency to understand the disaster and prevent further loss. The survivors, many of whom share their stories for the first time in Tsunami: Race Against Time, demonstrate the depth of human resilience. It’s a testament to our capacity to endure—and to our ability to rebuild, both physically and emotionally.
As we watch the series, or revisit the history, we are reminded not just of what was lost, but of the communities that came together to heal and rebuild. For many, the tsunami marked a new chapter, not just of recovery, but of growth, determination, and the realization that each day is a gift.

A Call to Gratitude
As the 20th anniversary of the 2004 tsunami approaches, let’s take a moment to reflect—not just on the loss, but on the survival, the rebuilding, and the lessons learned. Let’s be thankful for the lives we lead today, for the people we hold dear, and for the resilience that allows us to carry on, no matter the challenges we face. In the wake of one of the worst natural disasters in history, there is room for gratitude, even in the darkest of times.
In the face of tragedy, we have the choice to remember, to honor the past, and to find hope in our ability to keep going, to keep rebuilding, and to keep being there for each other. As we mark this anniversary, let’s be thankful—for life, for the lessons we learn, and for the strength we find in moments of great adversity.

For the documentarian readers here, consider the depth, and humanity the director, Daniel Bogado and his team, brought to this series.

Outstanding, and heart wrenching all at once.

Yep, it’s true.
I woke up on Jan 1, 2005, and had the original concept for Photoinduced.com.
With the design help of Barbarian group, this was built to be a multimedia platform dedicated to video and photography. Reviews, resources, interviews, and yes, product giveaways.
At the time the video pipeline wasn’t big enough to develop all of the ideas I had, so I incorporated Youtube.

After almost a year of development, Photoinduced.com went live on Dec.5th, 2005.

And the videos weren’t meant to be slick, over produced content, but real world looks, by a real world user at the gear available.
By connecting with brands, and attending all of the trade shows I could, the entirety of it all became clear. And by listening to all of you, the direction became formed, and honestly, has shifted with the tech growth and tools available. There are tabs at the top of the site page that have morphed and changed through the years.I think you’ll find them useful

Very important was to also share in the work by the masters and practitioners, for a fuller appreciation of what you all were creating.
Sometimes about admiration for the those that went before, sometimes hearing commentary from their own lips.
It was about the exhibits, and the books, that help lead the way, and also inspire.

A quote from Andy Adams, from FlakPhoto: “I remember the first time I met you, Damon – Review LA; I
think it was 2009. I was so impressed with what you were doing with
Photoinduced and wanted to emulate your success. Thanks for being a
constant source of inspiration. Looking forward to randomly running into you at
MoMA again one of these days…”

There was a weekly newsletter in the beginning, that has fallen away.

2025 will see some changes, and some additions. Always good to evolve!

And the question is: what is the best way to reach out to you?
Is a newsletter the best? TikTok? Reddit? FB? IG? Snap? BlueSky?

let me know what you think:

For that #TBT vibe, here is a screenshot from 2009 home page , featuring a post about Wyatt Neumann.

I hope you all had a great holiday, and were able to buy the things you needed, wanted, or for gifts. In the spirit of the season, here is a clip from Mad Men with the best pitch of all time.

I know that many times the photos/video we make are not personal, but business.

This product, no longer used or made, gives a reason for its being.

Yes, more product reviews and gift guides coming up!

Ok, let’s talk about audio.
You know that it’s 50% of your content, unless it’s bad. Then it’s 80%

Remember there are links to all of the gear mentioned for your ease of deeper diving.

When you want the choice to go more mobile, connect directly into your camera , or to a portable mixer, this now standard from Rode, the Rode Wireless Pro just works . With a receiver and 2 wireless mics, you can quickly hook up your subjects for an interview situation. Plus this new setup gets you 2 lavalier mics for a more discreet mic situation.And finally, a compact charging and storage case. In NYC, I’ve seen the local news station using these as they cover the local beat.

This new version features a 32 bit float, which is essentially a secondary recording that can ensure a quality recording when you go to edit. Basically a secondary track with a lower audio ceiling so you do not get “clipping” or distortion. N0t able to use that feature direct into your camera, but it’s your audio  insurance. Read more about 32 bit floats here.
Good news is that it is also compatible with a lot of other Rode products. Honestly it may be a bit harder to find due to the popularity, but worth the hunt.

They have just introduced a smaller set of 2 mic/transmitter plus a receiver called the  Micro 2-Person Ultracompact Wireless Microphone System with USB-C Connector Continue Reading »

Ahhhh, the holidays!
One of the joys of gathering with friends and family is sharing the good times, current, and those in the past.
Sure, we live on screens, send digital files to each other on all the socials, yet sometimes a physical remembrance goes a long way. Nothing to open up. It’s just there.
Like a printed photo.

Continue Reading »

Hope you all had a wonderful feast on Thanksgiving!
Maybe you got the gear purchases sorted, and maybe you’re still making the list and checking it twice

There will be more gear lists ready for Cyber Monday, don’t worry!

This year, some of our favorite galleries and photo organizations are doing Black Friday sales!OK, some are holiday sales,so not as intense of a rush!

Like Magnum:
A prestigious organization of celebrated photographers, started by people like Henri Cartier-Bresson.
This year they have sales on a few of my favorite things. If you were ever thinking that photos in the past, primarily commercial photographs, weren’t worked on, here is some of the proof that master printers had hands on these. Make sure you check out some of the options for prints.  Below is a photo of James Dean, with printing notes.

Continue Reading »

Happy Thanksgiving!

Whether you are getting ready to watch the Macy’s Parade, or maybe putting together your Black Friday/Cyber Monday gift buying guide, here is a list of the guides to where we are at to date to ease your shopping questions.

The categories:

*Get A Grip

*The Tools You Need

Media Storage & Drives

*On the Road Again

Mobile Content Creation

*Camera Bags

*Power Up

*Software

Oh yes, there is more to come! Have a great turkey day!

The Classic Meal Add-On!

On category that has been exploding these past few years is mobile content creation.
Between major upgrade in phones, the move to USB-C in all phones (yes, I know Android has already been there) and the ability to record ProRes/4K direct to external small SSD’s, the democratization of creating higher end videos is here to stay.
On board storage is not the issue it once was.

One company has been putting out gear that is magsafe, works in a system, and is easy to carry, and that is the ShiftCam series.
Between a phone charging hand grip, a mag safe light, and a magsafe cold shoe, this is always in my bag.

Yes, packs small, plays big. Here is the official vid. Continue Reading »

Seems like three will be record breaking traveling going on this season, and next year will see even more!
We are back on the road!
Be prepared!

One of my favorite ways to keep all of my tech goodies together is the Peak Design Tech Pouch.

Continue Reading »

To be honest, one of the main things I purchase every year on Black Frida/Cyber Monday is storage. Usually the best deals of the year

We’re talking media cards, SSD drives for the laptop, hard drives, card readers, and more.
And, as luck would have it, B&H just posted a bunch of their deals in this category. I also recco buying from BH as there is a peace of mind knowing I’m getting the official product. Yep, there are some counterfeiters out there!

If you are upgrading your RAID drives, a good time to get the best deals for the most storage. Remember for the best efficiency of your system, having at least 10% free space, if not 20% will be a great way to speed up any logjams in your system.

Truth is that this also the time of year that brands will be selling off stock, including the current crop of cards & drives as there is major electronics show in Jan called CES in Vegas, where all the newest gear will be introduced. Not cameras but everything else
Just the facts.

Here are some of the best you should consider picking up. Remember – your camera brands will have a list on their websites for preferred media cards, so you should consult these as well. I have used all of these items below, and depend on them.

For me, Delkin CFexpress cards are awesome and with the deals, get the fastest read write/speed you can get. These will do you well, whether you are shooting stills or video.
The Black Series

or Power series

Another brand you should consider is the AngelBird line of media. It could be cards for your camera, or mainly drives for your Atomos monitor/recorders, excellent choices will do well with these. They even have a shortened SSD Mini drive for Atomos that makes the profile when inserted perfect.
Small company with high quality products.

Going back to the Delkin line, they also package cards with their dual card readers, that will read your CFastB, and SD cards on one unit, which is perfect for travel as well.
USB-C ,so compatible with the latest.

Another card reader that has its pluses is the ProGrade dual card reader. What i like about this one is the magnet on the bottom, so you can mount in your workspace with the include adhesive backed metal strip. for those who need to be posting super-fast, you can mount it to your laptop lid, using the same metal strip.
In the past we would use Velcro, but new days!
And for those concerned about magnets and media cards, don’t worry, no issues here.

For the portable SSD, it’s the Samsung T7 for the win. Whether you are needing a drive to store your work while being portable . or you need to record directly to drive from your phone, this is the one.

It comes in 1, 2and 4 TB.
And for media card wallets, nothing beats the ThinkTank card wallet. And after 12 years of using mine, they still are my go-to carry solution. When you are on assignment, and need to have fast access, a fully loaded wallet in your pocket makes life a bit easier. And yes, there are  bunch of colors and some that willhold batteries as well

Regarding RAID drives, I always prefer a system that does not depend on proprietary software. We have seen systems go down in the past few years , like Drobo. I have purchased drive enclosures on EBAY, that I know I can take a drive out, put it into a hard drive dock, and all of my material is intact.Here is the Sabrent, which I use.

More to come daily this week, with a break on Turkey day.

Start getting your lists together and get ready for the deals!

There some items you need on the daily, and some that help maintain your personal status quo. They may not be sexy, but you need to get them.
And now, it’s time to upgrade.

Having to screen, download and upload files all the time, I finally realized that the stuck internet was probably caused by my ancient router. Like molasses. Mine was about 12 years old. Plus I had an extender in my place to make sure the internet reached all over the place.
To be fair, my desktop computer is a Mac Pro trashcan circa 2013. Anyone else? That will be my next major upgrade.
Till then, the peripherals will make the workflow smoother, faster, and all in the background!
I would highly recommend the NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 7 Router (RS300), and it cleared up the log jam like crazy!

Super easy to set up, and about $300, my dead zones disappeared, and finally speed was my friend. Recently reviewed right here.

Then we have the suite of tools from Datacolor.

With a monthly reminder that pops up to remind me to calibrate my monitors, the Spyder device is tool you have to get.
I regularly calibrate 2 monitors with the Spyder X2.

This reads the ambient light as well, and will calibrate your monitors to give you true color, and that’s what we want , right?
I had a book of photographs published last year, and I had to make sure the files supplied were color correct. You can program it to send you a pop-up alert  when to recalibrate
It is now just a part of my all the time workflow.
Other products from Datacolor are the color charts you should be using to take a sample shot with, and make sure the colors you begin with in your post production workflow are accurate to begin with!

They are in a rigid plastic folding container, easy to carry, and have grey scale as well as a major skin tone range of color .

Basically, shoot a frame of the appropriate color chart in your shooting situation. When you import your files , including the shot of the color chart, simple calibrate the chart in your editing program of choice, and then copy/ paste that correction onto your images. And stepping back a second, also make sure you have calibrated your monitor(s) with the Spyder. All about the workflow!

Pick up one for stills, and another for video. Your post production will be faster and smoother once you start with great files.

And if the charts get dirty from handling, you can replace them. Here it is in camera bag for size relationship. I put mine in a covered pocket in the back.

Then we have the full compliment of Wacom tablets.

What are they? Basically a pen based tablet that can be programmed for sensitivity, functionality, and is the best tool for any retouching. When you need precise working on an image. Plus if you are a putting any graphics in, this is an  excellent drawing tool. The pen hasvirtually no lag from tablet to screen, and does not need batteries.

In the world of pen based controllers for your post and retouching work, Wacom is the king.                                                                                                                     Start with the easiest series and move on up to Intuos, for a habit you will never want to break.
Go Bluetooth so you can cut down on cord clutter and make your workspace a bit more conducive to…work.This one is on sale for $80 right now.
When you can move through your files with a pen based control, your keyboard will be left in the dust.
Adjustable sensitivity will get you a learning curve that will be like riding a bike once you get into it.

Plus they have pen based monitors that are affordable now, so you can do your retouching right on the image via the screen, which is a more intuitive way to go, IMHO.

You do need to connect to your computer by cable with this option due to the amount of material going through to the monitor.

And one item that has cleared the cable clutter on my desktop are these multi functional cables from Rolling Square.

They were the first and do it the best. One cable that has 4 plug options so everything you connect to can be done in one cable.

Big time sale on their site right now, so get on it! They even have a small one that goes in my travel kit and lives on my keychain.

They also make a great modular system for attaching this to your computer, and many other uses. Reviewed last year, and still using daily

These items, along with the charging hubs in the previous post are main tools used daily, not flashy, yet need to be updated every now and again.

This season is the now!

And by get a grip, I mean how to hold your camera, or attach it to a device for stabilization.

First off, one item I will always recco is the SpiderPro Hand Strap.

Having tried a TON of attempts in this category, nothing beats this. Continue Reading »

Picking a bag for your camera gear is not only personal, but situation specific.

I’ll go through a variety of choices here, and know that, with one exception, I have personally used.

First up is the everyday carry. The Peak design Sling 10 L

This is my perfect street photography camera bag.

This is the bag that I can put 2 bodies, 2 lenses, enough batteries, media cards, phone chargers, and extra bits, for a good day of walkabout.
The build is solid with perfectly designing adjustable inserts, enough pockets and straps to carry what you need.
One thing I particularly love about this bag is the fact that it opens TO my body, as opposed opening away. In other words, i can look down and see what I need to get out of the bag, while “shielding” the contents from those around me with the lid.

Being in a city, I like it for security and convenience. I can unzip, grab the camera, and put it back in the bag fast. And like the first part of getting the camera, the lid of the bag covers the camera upon insertion.
Plus, it has a more rigid build. Not stiff, as it can fold down for packing in a suitcase but defined. There is a handle that allows it to be slid over a suitcase metal handle for easier stacking

My usual is a body, with one lens attached, and an extra lens for street. Although, I can easily add a second body. if need be.

Then for a full tilt, mobile content carry all, we have a generic looking Manfrotto bag, called the Street Slim
This one doesn’t scream camera bag, so discreet, and has all the pockets and interiors shelves you may need to carry your phone cage, microphones, gimbal, stand, lights, batteries, and a laptop or tablet.

One of the main reason this bag is perfect for the mobile creator is the amount of compartments and sections it has, as the tools you use in mobile are generally smaller, and knowing where they are is critical for speed!

As a backpack, it has the room to carry all you may need to shoot a day of content, and, of course, an exterior pocket for a water bottle or travel tripod.

for the interior, yes, it can handle a mirrorless system, but I feel this is best for mobile gear carry.

you can also slip it over a suitcase handle for transport.

There is one bag I have used that is really the best for a more formal affair as it is leather, with a refined look, and a smaller size. Grams(28)camera Sling
With this I use a smaller camera like a Fuji X100V, enough batts, cards, and room to stash things I would carry on my person, but a cleaner look when not wanting to bulk up the suit.

There is a great Black Friday sale on these right now. And although specific in use, a great addition to your bag options.

Then we have the travel bags.
When I go to an event like a trade show out of town, the SKB hard case with a ThinkTank backpack insert is the call.

As things can get knocked around in transit, even if never leaving your side, you still may toss it in the overhead, in the back of taxi, etc. you know your gear is protected. So hard protective case, with the advantage of pack once, and then just grab the backpack when you reach your destination.

To be fair, I usually take some items out once I’m in a hotel, as I travel with more than I may need. Always be prepared!

Also, in the space between the bag, and the outer shell, I add a small light, or media card case.

On a local basis, the big case for full tilt gear is the Think Tank StreetWalker V2.0. With wheels and an option to use as a backpack, you can’t go wrong. Great for city shoots, as I’ve carried this on my back, then switched to wheels when I got closer to the gig. Yes, there is a handle that rises up for the wheeled transpo, and a zippered flap covers it when not needed.

Plus it has so many pockets, side and front,  so you can carry all of your needed bits and pieces

A new entry into the backpack category is the Lowepro ProActic 3 series and this looks like a solid choice with 2 sizes available 350 and 450.
They are on series 3 now so the series 2 is getting discounted!

https://bhpho.to/4eAvw0S
Still, there is a reason they updated so you may want to go with the latest version.

Lowepro has been a solid brand forever, and always delivered quality goods.you can see the options here as you can carry a ton of stuff ( 2 tripods?), and use it as a sling bag. Personally, I feel that if you can get your needed gear into a smaller bag, save you back, and get the right size.
This was the one that I do not have personal experience with, and if I do, I’ll share a real world review.

One thing I would suggest if you are buying the bag for yourself, is gather the gear you want to carry in it, and either go to a brick and mortar camera store, or make sure you can do a return. Then put your gear into the bag and make sure it’s the size you want.

Yes, this is why I have a bunch of bags. Like every photographer I know!
The right tool for the job.

To keep all your gear moving you need power.
Other than the camera batteries of course.
After seeing a ton of products this year, it’s clear that Anker is owning the market.
I may have a drawer full of batteries, but they are getting tired.
The latest are smaller, more powerful and faster charging. BTW, Everything below I have used, and recco!

Anker’s latest phone battery is a vast improvement on previous models as the “packs small, plays big” concept is in full view.
Their latest Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K, Slim) mag safe battery has so much juice, this should keep your phone going all day even with heavy usage, plus an extra full charge!

Smaller than your phone, this battery and connect via a USB-C cable or with mag safe to your phone.
One thing I have found is that these mag safe batteries can generate a little heat and have had my phone stop charging till the temp came down a bit.
Nothing to crazy, just a note.

Then they have the bigger power bank that will connect to your laptop, tablet, phone, and even charge multiple devices in a small footprint. Anker 737 24,000 mAh

The great thing about this one is the LCD read out telling you how much power is left in %, which is better than the traditional 4 light code.
Yes, it has a little heft but it’s a great unit for a content creator full day.

One other tiny battery from the folks at Rolling Square, fits on your keychain and is a great emergency top up for your phone that is super light and easy to carry.
Called the   TAU® 2 – Emergency keyring power bank, it has lightning & USB-C cables built right in, comes with QR code stickers that you can add your contact info to, in case you misplace your keys, plus a mountable charging

with a magnetic and is a perfect stocking stuffer as well. Of course, NEVER add your address! just a contact like a cel# social media contact or 2000mAh.

BTW, more products from Rolling Square will be featured this week in additional gift guides!

As we are all moving to USB-C, there is a home charging hub from Anker, called the Prime that has 4 fast charging USB-C ports, and 2 USB-A ports.

With a programable feature so you can choose how your gear is charged, making it a smart charger, it’s perfect base unit to use for all your  charging needs. Plus, it has a clock feature, which I’m a big fan of! The 4 USB-C ports are following the move to that format as everything is going there.

And part of all of the the new upgrades, are better USB-C charging cables for fast charging.

There are built to handle the faster charging speed
Here is the Anker version:

The Scosche brand is a braided, heavy-duty cable that can handle the fast charge.

Speaking of Scosche, one more item for you shopping list is the Scosche Dual Port USB-C 65 watt charger. It’s tiny, and the plug prongs fold into the body so it’s an easy travel device. If you can imagine an iPad charger block, except with 2 ports and super fast charging capability. Perfect for travel and will let you fast charge a laptop and phone in the same hub, as we all know laptop ports are in demand and anytime you can consolidate is a win.  Perfect for working in the coffee shop, or on a plane.

And here is  USB-C hub that will be included into the travel gift posting, although fits right here as well.

A  brilliant product from Twelve South it’s the PlugBug, that not only has 4 USB-C ports, folding plug for smoother packing, this unit has a tracking device built in, in case you leave your charging hub behind ! Maybe at the coffee shop, hotel room, shared workspace, or perhaps you just forgot to pack it!

Yep, working with Find My on your iPhone, I have been alerted when it’s left behind, so I know its working!.
You can also get this with a travel case that holds all of our internal plus adaptors.

There you have! a curated collection of power tools for you and /or your giftee!.

Remember, Black Friday is coming fast, and some of the brands above are already in the zone!

This is an interesting category as many of you may have settled into your daily software of choice for your images.
I’s say there are 2 main, Adobe Lightroom, and Capture one.
As subscription based software, you do get locked into a system so choose wisely and maybe download a trial to se what works best for you.
However, Black Friday does bring deals every year, and 2024 is no different!
Adobe has just announced their deals and you can save about 50% on the creative cloud giving you a full suite of programs to handle all of you creative needs.

Lightroom, Photoshop, Premiere, After Effects, Illustrator and soo much more.
If you just want the photo based applications you can just get those and save some dough.
Honestly I Iove Lightroom and use it for my digital asset management (DAM).
Currently have about 370K images in the system.
Here is a tip, no matter what system you use: always tag the files as you import them.
It is the best way to find them when you need them.

Then you can go to a program like Topaz. This one has options like sharpening, upscaling for enlargements, noise reduction, or even just using their AI option to clean up as you like.

Be careful and use sparingly. Testing the options is the best way, so you don’t make your images look too artificial.
Once again, download trail and see how it works for you.

You can also integrate this software directly into Lightroom as a plugin, so you can use easily.
Yes, I did buy Capture One, although found it was not my preferred everyday software.
You may have a different experience.

There are various RAW processing programs, like Iridient, although the 2 main are improving their RAW processing all of the time.

For the beginners who are looking to upgrade their game from phone apps, the perfect transition software is the Photoshop Elements package.

In one well priced standalone group of applications, you can get the photo with a video editing package for an additional $50, with the features used in the more advanced programs, it is a great gift for the aspiring photog and/or video creator. When they are ready to move to a more robust set of applications, they will be well versed.

For the mobile content creator, the current leader for video is the FREE Blackmagic phone camera app. The options to shoot the highest quality, with the most options you can with your phone is right here.
TBH, I was a longtime Filmic Pro user, and this app has taken over.
Download and take it for a spin!

There you have it for today!.

I know people have their favorite software to use, and here are just a few of the main stays.

Don’t love some of them having a subscription model, but maybe renew during black friday deals when your sub is up.

Some Black Friday sales have already begun so jump on them!

Tis the season!

For years, this next set of posts are always a favorite of mine, as it gathers ideas for you to gift to the photo/video fan in your world, and of course. maybe just purchase something to make your life easier! Plus, want to give you enough time to take advantage of the coming sales!

Come back daily for fresh categories of selected products!

A couple of things to note:

*most everything in the posts have been tested and worked with, so the reccos come from a real place.

*Cameras systems are generally not included, as it it such a personal , and expensive proposition that you should research via multiple sources, with a major one, putting a camera in your hands to make sure it it what you want to commit to.

*If someone asked me what to recco: Fuji, Nikon, Sony, or Canon my answer is – YES!

OK, to start here is a scanner that has been posted about before, and is a great product for families and extended families. I wanted to give you time to read about, buy one, scan your family photos, send it off to another family member, have them scan, and so on, creating a huge shared family history through photos.It has gone from the 640w to the 680w sinceI first saw it.

Here is a link to the latest version. 

I love to scan old photos.
Seriously, being able to scan negatives and slide from my archives is one of my favorite evening pastimes. Set it up, scan and store. It almost becomes a treasure hunt, especially with the negatives.
One thing I was not scanning much were all of the 4×6 photos in my storage boxes. You know, we all have them. The personal records of our lives.
The neg sleeves from the commercial labs, like Fromex, had a short cut to the strips, and was, honestly a bit of a pain to deal with.
There are services where you pack all of your precious family photos into a box, and send them overseas to be scanned. Scared the heck out of me, so never did it.
The I saw a demo of the Epson FastFoto 640 

When I first saw the Epson FastFoto last year, I had a feeling that this was a breakthrough product. Being able to bulk scan my family snaps, with speed, AND scan front and back for the older ones (people used to put notes on the back) was a win. And sitting on a small bit of a desktop? Worked for me!
Until I get to try these things out myself, I can’t truly comment.
After having one to test for a bit. I’m convinced.

Pure winner.
There is one downside that I’ll broach later. Continue Reading »

It’s that time of year when we all look at how to update our tools, and keep up with improvements in your equipment.
Sometimes though, we get tempted to look back at some previous gear that may still have some life.
That’s what I did.
Here are my latest 3 revivals:

Rummaging through some drawers, I came across my Canon S100, digital camera which was truly pocket sized. To give you an idea how long I had this , there was a 1GB SD card in it.

Ordered some fresh batteries, cheap on Amazon, and hit the streets.
Wow!
The color right out of camera was exceptional! With a zoom lens, multiple options for scene choices, this camera has now become a staple in my camera bag. Or my jeans.

It’s not fast, but it still shoots straight!

Then, I was looking at a video camera from DJI, the Osmo Pocket 1st gen.
This is a slim, pocket sized, all in one gimbal , and while only shooting HD, is still a handy device while on a walk about. It does have all of the standard gimbal choices of movement, and shoots stills as well, with a pano stitching feature.

It connects to the DJI Mimo app, which is pretty robust, and has tutorials.
This camera needed some tender loving care (wasn’t charging) from DJI and $70 later, it was as good as new!

DJI repairfolks were all over it and were great communicators! Checked in with call after the repair to make sure all was good.

It records to a Micro SD, and with all of the accessories I had used years before, ithas worked its way back into the content capture repertoire.

They are up to V3 with a larger viewing screen, 4K, and a $600 price tag.
This one is working fine, just needed to add my phone for a larger viewing screen and is quite handy.

The last one (for now)is a utility bit of gear. Power when you need it!

At an event, I saw one of the shooters using a Quantum Turbo SC battery pack to power his speedlight.
I was always a fan as this gave you full power with super fast recycling times, and a looooong time of usage.
I used to work a bit with Quantum lights, which have gone out of favor, but the battery pack could power a bunch of my speedlights, with proper cabling.
My pack wasn’t charging, so I found a repair place on EBAY, and for $50 he repaired the pack, and its as good as new!
I can use it with Nikon, Nissin, and of course, Quantum strobes. Like I said , just need the right cables to connect the battery to the speedlight

The lesson to me was this: I’d rather repair, than recycle.
As long as the gear can be effective.

Sure, there is nothing like getting fresh updated tech, and the dopamine hit from opening that packing , charging it up and working with it.

Sometimes though, you have some quality choices right there in your drawer.
Have a look, you may be surprised. It’s a fun journey, and productive journey.

Don’t get me started about the Contax T3 waiting for a fresh roll of film!

And next up will be the Holiday Gift Guides, so you can still get the new, while appreciating the old.

Fujifilm had a few intros of new products today for the full range of image makers.There are links to each item for more details on the photos below. Hover and click.

Please note, I have not yet handled any of these units, and will do a real world review once I do.

At the top, there is nothing like a favorite lens getting an improvement!
Seriously, my everyday lens is the Fuji 16-55 2.8, which lives on my X-H2.
Yes, it’s a hunk but it is sharp as a tack, and produces beautiful bokeh.
Today, Fuji announced the revise version of this lens .

The key differences are 37.4% less weight, slightly shorter(43in), and for video production an option for “clickless” aperture: Quiet, and smooth.
The price will be the same as the previous model, $1200 USD.
As a daily user of the 1st edition, less weight and length will bring me in, especially in a street photography situation.
For video, I have been stuck on the 18-55mm, but with these these changes on the 16-55mm, it will be the shift to a one lens situation I have been hoping for.

For the newer content creators they are introducing the X-M5 :

A relatively inexpensive ($800), 26MP camera on a body that can record up to 4K/60P, with powerful digital image stabilization.

Listening to the content creator market’s need, the 3 onboard mics can be configured 4 different ways, with the most unique one being a front and back mic for interview situations. Very cool.

Plus a noise reduction function to reduce things like air conditioner noise.

New bit rates of 8 Mbps and 25 Mbps have been added for users to select from the “Media Recording Settings” when creating video content. These options reduce the transfer time to external devices such as smartphones and improve the time required to upload video directly to social media. 

In that same realm, those that may post direct to Tik Tok, IG stories, or Snap, the X-M5’s new “9:16 short movie mode” also allows users to create vertical videos in camera.

Single SD card slot, and it appears that the older block batteries used in the X-t2 and X100series should work.
Fuji is listening.

Then the latest tele lens, FUJINON XF500mmF5.6 R LM OIS WR.

Perfect for birding and wildlife photography, with 20 sealing points in the barrel.

Aa sport lens, it has the length and speed, and if the newly leaked news about an AF firmware update pans out you may finally have the Fuji lens the action photographers have been waiting for.
About $3000.

Now awaiting the new firmware update!

When you need support for your camera (or smartphone), and you are on the move, a solid tripod is the call.
On the move is the key phrase as I like to travel as light as possible, while getting the results I need.
Through the years I have tried many solutions, and have come to this list of criteria for the right tool:
*Weight
*Size/Length when closed, and max height
*Versatile ball head
*Price
There are a lot of options out there, and this Manfrotto Befree Advanced AS twist carbon tripod checks all the boxes.

At the end of the post I’ll give you a concise pluses and minuses on this tripod!
Continue Reading »

Nat Geo has had a strong year of high-quality specials, from biographies of well known and diverse types of photographers, to capturing the beauty and wonder of the ocean.
If there is one thing you are guaranteed of, is stunning cinematography. always. Period. End of story.

This latest exploration focusing on the National Parks:USA is no exception. Starting streaming Sept 8th.

From sharing the experience of being together with rock climbing experts that will take your breath away, to macro photography of beehives like you have never seen before, to views from the skys of these majestic lands from one of the finest aerial cinematographers today. Continue Reading »

I know that we have all probably had a pair of the ubiquitous white ear buds.
Reality is they don’t last forever.
True story is that the battery will only be able to be charged a certain amount of times, before they are ready to recycle. The quality deteriorates, and you will soon need a new pair. I did.
Maybe now is that time for you look around and check your options!
Now, the main thing I use ear buds for are Zoom calls, podcasts, calls on the phone, and of course the primary – music!
What I look for is a fast connect to each device, without having to go into system preferences to select a headset. Just want to pop them in, and be connected.
As I do review a bunch of headphones, I usually have about 9 headsets pre-connected to my computer and phone.

Here is a comparison of the 3 sets Poly ended up sharing for review, with a winner revealed:

Continue Reading »

The last time we wrote about Nat Geo doc series, they were concentrating on the photographers life story along with their work.
This time, they take you deep into the ocean with a group of scientists and cinematographers to show you the world beneath the surface as you have not it seen it before.
At the heart of it, the OceanX project is dedicated to the research and sharing of the oceans secrets.The physical OceanXplorer ship has multiple labs, exploratory vehicles and more, all on board.
THE SERIES PREMIERES AUG. 18 ON NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC AND STREAMS NEXT DAY ON DISNEY+ AND HULU

The superior quality of the team at Nat Geo and BBC Studios will get you a scientists view of the world under the sea, and you will see things rarely, if ever, seen before!
James Cameron introduces, and narrates each episode.

Aldo Kane with dive team James Loudon, Dave Reichert, Stephen Hudson, Nuno Sa and Emma Hatherley holding underwater cameras in the Sub Hangar. (National Geographic/Mario Tadinac)

From the Photoinduced youtube archives:
An interview with Lauren Greenfield at the Annenberg Space for Photography in Los Angeles

In recent posts, we covered mobile content creation tools, and ventured into the audio portion as well, so was very curious to check out this lightweight feature laden mic.

JOBY sent over this mic, the Wavo Plus, for review and had no input into this post.

First of all, this mic comes with most of the cables you need to connect to your camera, computer, and Android phone. To connect to an iPhone, you will need a USB-C to Lightening adaptor or cable.

 
Continue Reading »

A little while ago, I featured tools for mobile creation, and highlighted the the ShiftCam brand of products.
The SnapCam is always in my bag, as well as the magsafe cold shoe.   I’m all in for the ease of use and modular mag system of ShiftCam.They just announced a new group of products on Indiegogo that will definitely pique your interest even if you are already in the system.

Starting with a new grip with a larger 5000 mAh battery to charge your phone while you shoot, and for me, most excited for the Studio light, which is a perfect flat light for vlogging and small product shots.
Some of the other items are some new tripod choices, but it’s the light that’s the star for me.
Continue Reading »

We’ve covered the basics, now let’s look at some extras, including one small but essential item in every camera bag.
In Part 1, we discussed the various ways to hold your phone. Now, let’s consider the options for tracking, enabling you to move around freely or track your subject while keeping them perfectly framed.

For a stationary position, like on a tripod or tabletop, allowing for subject movement, the Pivo has been leading the pack. Once your phone is secured into the base and connected via Bluetooth, it can track a subject in 360º, moving in a circular path. Their latest version also tilts up and down, offering even more flexibility for creators.

Gimbals are another fantastic option, and there are many choices out there. When using a gimbal while walking, adjust your walking style to achieve the smoothest footage, minimizing any up-and-down motion. While gimbals can significantly smooth your footage, they do have their limits.

I recently dusted off my trusty DJI OSMO 3 (now up to version 6) and it still works like a charm. It connects quickly, folds up neatly, and performs as expected. However, adding a mic or light can be tricky, requiring an attachment with cold shoes. Without this attachment ring, the add-ons can throw off the balance if mounted directly on the phone, defeating the gimbal’s purpose.

I find having a coiled cable gives the best flexibility for switching from vertical or horizontal format, plus makes it a little cleaner rig.

Here’s another solution: the Insta360 Flow Pro gimbal with Apple Dockit.

With the Insta360 app, tracking is excellent, and the DJI MIMO app for the OSMO 3 also offers a similar active tracking feature. The Insta Flow Pro might be more automatic, whereas the DJI setup requires you to draw a rectangle on the screen to select your subject for tracking.

Lightweight and compact, the Flow Pro pairs easily and features built-in tripod legs for stability. However, adding a mic and light still presents challenges. The distance from the phone to the handle requires a longer connecting cable, potentially affecting tracking and balance.

Ultimately, the gear you choose depends on the content you want to create. With a cage or Shiftcam, you can attach lights and mics, leaving smooth footage up to the operator. If you’re stationary, a gimbal isn’t necessary, but it can provide smoother footage, albeit with some limitations regarding additional accessories.

And don’t let your phone’s storage space limit you. You can use a lightning drive or USB-C for a micro SD card to save your videos. The Blackmagic camera app (free) has a media tab for viewing media cards. When I got my Lexar set years ago, it included a USB-A card reader for easy connection to a computer or use an SD to micro SD holder for media loading.

Here are possible solutions where you can connect your micro SD card directly into your phone. Shoot and transfer onto the card and delete off of the phone saving space. Available for USB-C and Lightening.
Yes, there are solutions that will allow you to record right to an external SSD, but this is a nice compact solution to space saving.

One item always in my bag is the Apple SD card reader. It’s invaluable for quickly transferring photos from my mirrorless camera to my phone for fast social media posting.

While there are manufacturer apps for this, I prefer direct connections for reliability. When you plug in the reader, your Photo App will prompt you to import files from the media card, allowing for quick editing and posting.

Here is a real world recent example: At Tribeca there was a screening of a Steve Van Zandt doc. After working the step & repeat, I took my seat in the theater. Before the film started, I connected an SD card t the phone, selected jpgs, did some minor post work and uploaded to social, before the movie started.

Yes, there are other off-brand SD card readers, but I stick with Apple for reliability.

New parts coming soon! The introduction of new mobile creation tools is exploding! Like this Lexar SSD on Kickstarter.

We have walked through some of the simplest to more elaborate set-ups to create content on your mobile device in part 1 (the basics) & 2 (the audio)

Now, when you start adding the extras, they take power, and if creating content on your phone, you are gonna be needing some extra juice. But you knew that!

The most boring, essential parts of your mobile kit.

There are 4 options I use and will recommend. Each one has its particular features and depends on your use. I have had these for a while so the latest with newer features are available.
BTW, Amazon has prime day coming up so a great time to get new batteries! Usually, they get discounted.

Please note before starting any creation situation, always start with a full charge!

Below is the Mophie 5kmAh magsafe with a folding stand, the Mophie power station, the iWalk Power Squid dual cable, and the Anker 737 power bank

Starting with the Mophie with the folding stand. Mophie snap+ juice pack mini

If I’m going to be outside, and editing on my phone, this battery gives me enough extra power, and will stand up the phone for a non-handheld advantage. Great when stopping for a coffee and getting some posting done.
MagSafe, so no cables needed. Sure, you can charge up your airpods through the USB-C port, but save your power. In a pinch, fine.
About $50

The Mophie 10K mAh basic block with fast charging, and also dual ports for charging 2 devices at one, and you need cables. Not magsafe. But this comes with me when I need a super fast charge, as I’m starting the day.

A good alt is the iWalk power squid which has the 2 diff connectors built in, and a great feature is a LED window showing you a % of power available, instead of the vague 4 dots on most units. I like the built in cables, and use this when I’m around the neighborhood, and may not be able to locate my charging cables immediately!

9000 mAh
About $60, and currently they have added a mini usb cable onto the unit, so 3 built in cables. I don’t replace my batteries often, just use the best for the situation.
Now there are a few batteries out there now with built in cables. Buy a reputable brand, as a cheap or bad battery can do more damage than good. I’ve had some of the gift bag batteries overheat and had to properly toss.

Then comes the big one: The Anker 737 power bank

When you are out making a ton of vids, and using all the gear, including an iPad or other tablet, the clear winner is the Anker 737 power bank.
24000 mAh, a beautiful info display, 140 W High Speed input and output.
Sure, it weighs about 1.4 lbs., although if you are out creating content all day, need to edit, and post, you’ll appreciate all the power you get.
You can charge it up, while charging the other devices so a win win situation.
And it is approved to carry on a plane.
Charge a laptop, iPad, phone, ear buds OR your mic receiver/transmitter, light.

Anker does seem to be the current leader in this space, being followed by Mophie.

So……..
Are batteries one of those boring things to add to the kit?
You bet.
Are they essential?
You bet.
Chose reputable brands, make sure they are fully charged before adding to your bag, have duplicate cables when required as back-ups.
In the next part will be the items that will enhance your work and become tools you will always want with you!

Living in A Powder Keg and Giving Off Sparks!

Continue Reading »

Yes, it’s Part 1 as there are so many tools available and choices to make.
And it’s all about using your mobile device to make the content.
Luckily, I’ve already gone through a bunch of options and hopefully can lead you to right choices for you.
First of all is the basic capture.
And deciding if you are looking to create interviews or scenario type of videos, or be the presenter, ala selfie.
To start: For interviews
Bring out your phone, choice the orientation, and hit video or cinema on the camera app, and go!
It does work great, and if you are a steady hand, you’ll get usable content. No need to buy anything!
BTW, Apple just released a free video app called Final Cut Camera, which gives you a deeper dive into video options. Just downloaded, and seeing how it compares to others.
Depending on your scenario, you may want to add the Joby Beamo magsafe light, or the ShiftCam SnapLight to fill in the shadows a bit.

Easy right?
I use this approach a lot especially on the street, if I’m also capturing stills. Fast, not intimidating, decent sound (more on that later!)
The lights will also do you right when doing the selfie type vids. Shoot, post to social, and there you go.

But you knew all of this.

Let’s get into the tools that up the level.
The simplest and effective gear is the ShiftCam SnapGrip creator kit system.

Using MagSafe, it attaches easily, and fast to your camera, and incorporates a BT shutter release, and a battery so you are charging your camera while it’s mounted. Knowing that the phone ischarging while you shoot is a big comfort factor

It’s easy to orient your camera in a vertical or horizontal direction.
To up the set-up you can stack add their magsafe light, which has an additional mirrored surface to allow you or your subject to see what is being videoed.
Not sure that you want your subject to watch themselves, but it does get their eyeline into the proper camera lens. Maybe most useful when doing presenter or selfie, the now current vlog format, while making sure you are in the frame.
The ShiftCam system does incorporate a magsafe extendable arm that connects to a mini tripod to give your arm some distance.
I do wish there was a standard ¼-20 thread to give options for mounting.
Another add-on recommended is the magsafe SnapShoe.

It kind of stacks with the others and lets you add a different light to your rig, or maybe an external mic!
And alternate to this is the Ulanzi magsafe grip. This is also BT, and has a built-in cold shoe, and a ¼-20 thread on the bottom. No built in battery.

Which one is best for you? The Snap is def a more robust build, and the built in battery assured me I wouldn’t go dark when recording. Plus, it has a case to keep it from getting trashed in your camera bag.

Then we get into the camera cages that give you many more possibilities to add on accessories to the rig.
My main is the Beastgrip. With a solid build, and ability to adjust to many diff phone sizes, this is my first choice. A spring loaded holder,not mag safe, and a bunch for ¼-20 threads to add extras.

With plenty of ¼ -20 threads to add cold shoes to mount lights, mics, SSD drives, plus a great handle, when covering trade shows, this rig has the raw capability I need.
Another option is the SmallRig Universal phone Video Rig Kit, which also has the ability to add things, And the form is more of a 2 handed balance with cold shoes in the handles.

It does have a much larger footprint than the Beastgrip, once all things included are added on. I do see it on sale now and again at BH, and have purchased for about $120, same price as the Beastgrip, although it comes with a ton of extras (light, mic,tripod), and a case. The Small Rig full kit does have an extra holder for an external battery to keep you from running out of power. Or an SSD drive
Admittedly I have pillaged the Small Rig accessories to add onto the Beastgrip and Snap.

Neither of the Beastgrip or SmallRig are mag safe as of this writing.
In other words, you need to put your phone in and secure via a spring-loaded grip or screw tighten holder.

Ok, we have now gone from simple and light, to complex and heavier.
Covered some small footprints with the grip options.

Next up in Part 2 is audio!

Well, as we get ready to start the summer season, it’s a good time to have a look at some items that may enhance your giftee’s summer adventures.
Some you’ve seen in earlier gift guides, and a couple of new items. (BTW, there is a great deal this weekend on of of my favorite items, at he end of this post!)

For a good fun time, we all capture moments on the phone and the new set-up from Shift Cam sure does help!
With the Shift Cam SnapGrip camera holder, thanks to magsafe, which is the only way to go these days, you can attach your phone to this handle and shoot your phone like a camera, with a Bluetooth connection, and there is a shutter button on the handle.

In the center of the light, there is a magsafe fill light with 4 diff intensities,
plus a mirrored surface  so you can see your framing on selfies, OR your subject can see themselves. It is removable (another magsafe feature)

In the full set it comes with a case, a mini tripod and a mag “wand” to let you hold the phone away from you.

And you can charge your phone at the same time as there is a battery built into the grip.

Along with this set-up they also have introduced a new mobile camera bag, which is  built around mobile, and it’s perfect.

Screenshot

Yes, all photogs love camera bags, and this one will be a great addition to the lineup. There is a smart zipper in the middle of the top flap for easy access to your goods. I carry a Fuji 100VI and the phone, plus extras in this case.

You can even get a mag clip to attach your camera to get a body cam video, and it can clip to the body of the bag or the strap.

Screenshot

Honestly, when I first saw this set-up, I was super concerned about having my phone attached by mag only.

Don’t worry, they include a special phone leash to secure your phone and make sure nothing detaches when it’s not supposed to.

One issue I did have was on the “workstation ” feature. When it was all extended for easy access I wish there was material to to give me more working area on the sides.

Now If you want another choice for adding light to fill in those nasty shadows, without a grip, the Joby rechargeable Beamo Ring Light, thin light, also with varying intensities is the way to go. Magsafe, very thin, and it comes with a pouch for when you aren’t using it.

Of course everyone needs a Joby GorillaPod!

I have a full compliment of sizes, with ball heads, and at the top range they can hold a full size video camera. The ability to be infinitely adjustable with the special legs is genius. I have wrapped the legs around a round railing, with a big vid camera and it was secure.

Disclaimer: If you do that you should confirm that all is secure.

Another solution is the Playtpod Extreme tripod base. With a solid flat base and with enough holes to add on any numbers of accessories, you can do some great closeup photography.

They added a versatile handle to the lineup this year, which can be customized for hight, and has a ton of 1/4-20 holes to add, lights, flexible arms, and of course a ball head.

A super compact tripod system that is so versatile, every photographer should have this set-up. For the setup below I added in 2 Lume Cube lights, a Manfrotto ball head,  Joby BT remote, Ankerworks mic system, and a phone holder.

Different choices, but each one of these are great tools/gifts.

Then for the traveler:
Mag safe is the order of the day.

Here are the 2 latest to consider:

Anker has come out with a compact cube that transforms into a phone/watch/ air pod charger. Tiny footprint.

When I first saw this, thought it was a little heavy, but that was just for balance. It’s so small you need some weight, so it doesn’t fall over!

In the same category and even smaller, is the Twelve South butterfly.

This small folding circle can be configured in a few diff ways.

Charge both the phone and a watch, or just a phone. With the new iPhone app, you can set it, so you see the screen, and it’s your alarm clock!

Yes, can be done with a watch for an even smaller footprint.

It’s a beautiful design, and super small and efficient.

On the air pod pro, your case can use some protection.
The Catalyst case is waterproof up to 330 ft, and you can charge up though the case wirelessly.

On the plane:

First of all, I will not use ear pods on a plane.
Nope.
After having one fall out of my ear on a plane, and crawling around down 8 rows looking for it, I will only use over the ear headphones, and a Twelve South AirFly Pro.

Everyone you gift this, will thank you profusely after just one flight!

And of course, stash all of these item in a Peak Design Tech Pouch. Plus cables, laptop dock, Samsung SSD drive, and more.

Last gifting item on the list is  the best. Wrist . strap. Ever!!
The Spider Pro HandStrap V2

I have tried em all! These live on my camera body’s 24/7.
By attaching to the side, and then screwing into the tripod hole on the bottom, you can either use the included ¼-20 lug , OR I use the ring from a Black rapid strap.
This strap is adjustable, comfortable and honestly helps make the camera an extension of my hand, while being able to easily get put back into my peak design bag when done shooting.
Keep an eye out as they do have discounts time and again. As matter of fact, there is a Memorial Day special of 25% off!

There you have it! A mid-year guide that will give you, or your giftee a smile from each product.

Fuji today announced 2 new camera body additions to round out an upper echelon Pro Line, GFX 100S II and an enthusiast camera body, X-T-50. They are on a tear with new gear! Plus a new kit lens fro the X- Series, 16-50, and a sports lens at 500MM for the GFX series.

Since I will not be putting these in my hands till a Fuji Summit on 5/16, all I can share is what I’ve been told
Sure, it wasn’t that long ago that the X-100VI was announced, sold out, and is now on backorder. Maybe the X-T50 is your proper call as an upgrade from your smartphone.

But I digress. There is a lot here to digest, so let’s start with the big deal.

This new offering take in improvements in the Pro GFX line, with a new 100S II. Here are some photos and spec sheet below.

Basically- better AF better IBIS, Cam To Cloud Built-in ( a new feature on all of their new cams. There will be a separate post on all of that)

To be perfectly honest, as every fine art exhibit I have been to in recent weeks, shows photos that are made with larger format cameras, this camera should appeal to both the commercial photo, and the fine art shooter.

Honestly, I’d like to put this small, lighter weight, 102MP cam on the street and see how it feels. Of course fast AF is essential, and the smaller footprint could make this a worker on the street.

The Official Word:

 Lightweight, High Speed: Fujifilm Introduces FUJIFILM GFX100S II Mirrorless Digital Camera 

All the Power of the GFX System in a Small, Light Body Designed for Image Makers 

FUJIFILM North America Corporation, Electronic Imaging Division, today announces the latest addition to its GFX System mirrorless digital camera lineup, FUJIFILM GFX100S II (GFX100S II). This new camera harnesses the image quality and key functionality from the larger GFX100 II mirrorless digital camera, in a smaller, lighter GFX System body designed for image makers who want to expand their system and/or are seeking an entry point into large format photography. 

“Our GFX System continues to revolutionize ultra-high-resolution, large format image making by taking it out of specialist studio environments and putting into the hands of passionate creatives across all genres, styles and applications,” said Victor Ha, vice president, Electronic Imaging Division and Optical Devices Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “GFX100S II is the natural next step in the evolution of the product line that specifically caters to the needs of photographers who have wanted additional autofocus performance and responsiveness from their GFX100S cameras. We feel we’ve really delivered in that regard and done so in a way that allows it to keep its compact form factor, which means it can make an appearance in almost any creative setting.” 

GFX100S II is equipped with a new, high-performance GFX 102MP CMOS II large format sensor1 

 The new sensor has a diagonal length of 55mm (43.8mm in width x 32.9mm in height) which has approximately 1.7 times the area of a 35mm format sensor. approximately 1.7 times larger than a 35mm full-frame sensor, and paired with Fujifilm’s latest high-speed image processing engine, X-Processor 5, all housed within a compact body and weighing approximately 883 grams (31 ounces)

2Including the battery and the user’s memory card. , making it the lightest digital camera in the GFX System. 7-3, Akasaka 9-Chome Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan 

GFX100S II offers rich tonal expression and three-dimensional rendering capabilities, made possible by the unique characteristics of the large format sensor, with AI-based subject detection. It features fast and highly precise autofocus (AF) and continuous shooting speed of up to 7.0 frames per second

When using the mechanical shutter . The in-body image stabilization (IBIS) function achieves a maximum of eight-stop4 

 At CIPA standard compliant in pitch/yaw directions, with the FUJINON GF63mmF2.8 R WR lens mounted. five-axis performance, the best in the GFX System. In terms of video performance, users can create vibrant and smooth 4K/30P videos, allowing for high-quality video production as well. 

Main features 

Large format sensor with 102MP 

Improvement to the pixel structure in GFX100S II’s newly developed 102MP large format sensor has boosted the new sensor’s saturated electrons, enabling the use of ISO 80 as a standard sensitivity. At this setting and when shooting in 16-bit RAW, the camera can create images at greater dynamic range and with lower noise than with the previous GFX model. 

The new sensor’s micro lenses provide light use efficiency at the sensor’s edges. GFX100S II is equipped with a total of 20 Film Simulation modes, including REALA ACE mode, which combines faithful color reproduction and well-defined tonal expression. 

GFX100S II also includes the “Pixel Shift Multi-Shot” feature, which controls the in-body image stabilization function to shift the image sensor while creating photos. By creating a 16-shot RAW file, shifting the image sensor by 0.5 pixels for each shot, and using the dedicated software, “Pixel Shift Combiner”, to combine the 16 RAW files, it is possible to generate an image with approximately 400 million pixels. Additionally, the “Real Color” mode, which captures 4 RAW files with a one-pixel shift for each image, can generate images with a resolution of 102 million pixels while suppressing false colors, in only one-fourth of the imaging time and data volume compared to the previous GFX model. 

Powerful IBIS mechanism in a compact body 

The IBIS unit combined with gyro and acceleration sensors are designed to accurately depict even the slightest movement, along with the use of image information to detect shake and improve correction precision when creating an image. The camera’s IBIS mechanism also up to 8-stops of 5-axis stabilization performance, allowing creators who are working handheld to reliably, confidently, and comfortably create images even in low-light scenes without a tripod. 

The camera has a height of approximately 104mm (4 inches) and a depth of approximately 87mm (3.4 inches), similar to previous GFX System models. 

The body of GFX100S II incorporates Fujifilm’s BISHAMON-TEX textured exterior, designed to provide comfort and grip when holding the camera. 

Evolved high-speed, high precision autofocus (AF) and continuous shooting performance 

In addition to the evolved face and eye AF achieved through algorithm advancements, GFX100S II is equipped with AI based subject detection AF, developed with deep learning technology. It can detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects, and drones

The ”Bird” Subject Detection setting is used to detect insects and the “Airplane” setting is used to detect drones. , and it features an improved AF predictive algorithm compared to previous GFX System models, enabling it to handle high-speed motion tracking situations effectively. 

With the new development of the 102 MP high-speed sensor and an exceptionally high readout speed along with a newly developed shutter drive, it achieves a continuous shooting performance of 7.0 frames per second. 

GFX100S II is equipped with a high-magnification, high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a magnification of 0.84x and 5.76 million dots that is designed to suppress image distortion and flow caused by shifts in the position of the eye. 

4K/30P video recording capability 

With the new sensor in GFX100S II, the standard ISO100 is available in video mode to deliver even higher image quality in video footage than on previous GFX System models. 

GFX100S II is equipped with a tracking AF function during video recording. When using AF-C + Wide/Tracking AF, the user can easily track the intended subject, even in situations where multiple subjects are present. 

The camera offers 4K video recording at 30 frames per second and is capable of recording in 4K/30P 4:2:2 10-bit on a compatible SD Memory Card (sold separately). GFX100S II is offers compatible recording using Apple ProRes™ by connecting an external SSD via a USB Type C 

Certain recording modes of the GFX100S II may not be fully compatible with certain types of SSDs. Consult https://fujifilm-x.com/en-us/support/compatibility/cameras/list-of-supported-memory-cards/ for a list of confirmed compatible SSDs. 

GFX100S II is equipped with “F-Log2,” which offers a wide dynamic range of 13+ stops for recording, allowing for increased optimal flexibility in post-production, and it has the capability to record and output different video formats using different recording media and HDMI output. For example, users can record using “F-log2” onto any compatible recording media, while also simultaneously monitoring video via HDMI with any Film Simulation mode applied. This makes it easy to apply creative looks on set, but still retain flexibility for almost any post-production color workflow. 

GFX100S II offers an accessory-free, native Camera to Cloud integration for Adobe’s Frame.io, which allows users to wirelessly connect any GFX100S III to an active internet connection, authenticate it to Frame.io, and automatically upload photos and videos just moments after they are created. This can drastically reduce the amount of time needed to reach the end of any post-production workflow. GFX100S II is the latest GFX System camera to integrate Frame.io’s Camera to Cloud technology, joining GFX100 II in offering the capability. 

Optional accessories 

Hand grip (MHG-GFX S) 

This metal hand grip is designed to enhance grip and stability when image making with larger telephoto lenses and offers optimal convenience when using a tripod. 

Pricing and Availability 

FUJIFILM GFX100S II is expected to be available in June 2024 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $4,995.95 USD ($6,749.99 CAD). The MHG-GFX S hand grip is available at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $149.99 USD ($195 CAD). 

Additional News: 

Membership in C2PA7 and CAI8 and efforts to develop a system to provide context and history for digital media 

In recent years, it has become an important global objective to work to rebuild trust online by proving the authenticity of photographs, videos and other online content. To further this effort and enable creative and business activities to continue to flourish, Fujifilm has joined two organizations, the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) and the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI). Fujifilm is collaborating with these organizations in their efforts to ensure that the originator of digital content can be verified online through Content Credentials. Through its association with C2PA and CAI, Fujifilm will assist efforts to develop a system to provide context and history of digital content by providing valuable information, such as the origin and record of content, to the digital file. Fujifilm is committed to ultimately applying this verification solution to its GFX and X series line-up.

Then we have the X-T-50. N0t a replacement camera fro any other model, but a new niche camera. It does share some features of the 100VI, as in the back body menus, and the battery is the same. Plus has a built in pop up flash!

It’s a great choice for the step up and using quality interchangeable lenses. Last overhead image is shown with the option of the new kit lens, 16-50.

The Official word

FUJIFILM North America Corporation, Electronic Imaging Division, today announces the launch of its FUJIFILM X-T50 mirrorless digital camera (X-T50), designed with the similar manual controls and classic camera styling of FUJIFILM X100VI and other X100 Series fixed-lens cameras, but with the flexibility of interchangeable lenses for those who seek added versatility in their everyday carry camera. Also introduced today is FUJINON XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR lens (XF16-50mm) featuring a versatile focal length range, making it suitable for a broad range of applications, from wide-angle landscape and architectural photography to portrait photography. With their lightweight designs and compact form factors, these new X Series innovations are designed for active image makers. 

“Passionate creatives are ready to grab their gear and create content at any given moment,” said Victor Ha, vice president, Electronic Imaging Division and Optical Devices Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “X-T50 and XF16-50mm are made to be everyday-carry items; lightweight, comfortable tools that can be thrown in a bag for folks that are on the move. X-T50 is a great example of how we are keeping creativity top of mind for our users. From the dedicated Film Simulation dial to AI-based subject detection autofocus, X-T50 is more than ready the moment inspiration of any kind strikes.” 

X-T50 Mirrorless Digital Camera 

Dedicated Film Simulation Mode Dial 

For the first time on any X Series camera, X-T50 features a dedicated Film Simulation dial for fast, easy access to a wide variety of Fujifilm Film Simulations. There are a total of 20 Film Simulation 

-T50 including the recently introduced REALA ACE mode, which combines true-to-life color reproduction and crisp tonal gradations. The new Film Simulation dial is incorporated on the top plate, allowing users to intuitively switch between the included Film Simulation modes with ease. 

40.2 Megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR Sensor 

X-T50’s compact and lightweight body weighs approximately 438 grams (15.45 ounces)1

1 Including battery and memory card. , and features the X Series’ popular back-illuminated 40.2 megapixel X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR sensor and the high-speed image processing engine X-Processor 5. The latest image processing algorithm in the fifth generation X Series cameras delivers high resolution while maintaining a high signal-to-noise ratio. X-T50 is compatible with all X Series lenses, and the sensor’s high pixel count of approximately 40.2 megapixels is maximized by the digital teleconverter function2

2 Depending on the shooting mode, the digital teleconverter may not be deactivated or selected. , allowing images to be magnified by either 1.4x or 2x. X-T50’s pixel structure allows light to be captured efficiently; with ISO 125, the electronic shutter can be set to a shutter speed of up to 1/180000 second, achieving highly precise control of exposure time. 

In-body Image Stabilization (IBIS) and Auto mode 

X-T50 is equipped with a 5-axis IBIS function with a maximum of 7.0 stops

Based upon CIPA standard in pitch / yaw directions, and when coupled with FUJINON XF35mmF1.4 R lens. . While maintaining the mobility that has been a key feature of previous X Series models, X-T50 enables comfortable, hand-held image making, even in low light. Equipped with an AI-based subject detection autofocus (AF) developed using deep learning technology, X-T50 can detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects, and drones4

Set the subject detection setting to “Bird” to detect insects or “Aircraft” to detect drones. . When in Auto mode, X-T50 detects the subject and tracks it while keeping it in focus, making it easy to create high-quality still images and movies. 

6.2K/30P and 4K/60P video capabilities 

For video creators, 6.2K/30P recording is available. Tracking AF functionality is also available for high-quality video recording. 

X-T50’s extensive 13+ stop dynamic range on F-Log2 is perfect for color grading. 

Sophisticated product design 

X-T50 features a 1.84 million-dot, tiltable rear LCD monitor inside a new, rounded body and grip, designed to fit comfortably in the hand while maintaining a compact size. 

A pop-up flash integrated into the viewfinder is mounted on the top plate, automatically controlling the amount of light needed for dark scenes and backlit portraits. 

Native Frame.io Camera to Cloud Connectivity 

X-T50 offers an accessory-free, native Camera to Cloud integration for Adobe’s Frame.io, which allows users to wirelessly connect any X-T50 to an active internet connection, authenticate it to Frame.io, and automatically upload photos and videos just moments after they are created. This can drastically reduce the amount of time needed to reach the end of any post-production workflow. X-T50 is the latest X Series camera to integrate Frame.io’s Camera to Cloud technology, joining FUJIFILM X-H2, FUJIFILM X-H2S, FUJIFILM X-T5, FUJIFILM X-S20, and FUJIFILM X100VI mirrorless digital cameras in offering the capability. 

FUJINON XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR Lens 

XF16-50mm is a standard zoom lens that covers a focal length range from wide-angle 16mm (equivalent to 24mm in 35mm format) to medium telephoto 50mm (equivalent to 76mm in 35mm format). It offers high-speed and high precision autofocus, with magnification of 0.3x at the telephoto end (equivalent to magnification of 0.45x in 35mm format), allowing the user to get as close as approximately 4cm (1.4 inches) in minimum focusing distance throughout the zoom range and as close as 15cm (approximately 6 inches) from the front of the lens to the subject. 

XF16-50mm features a weather resistant structure (weather sealing applied to 13 areas of the lens barrel) and is temperature resistant down to -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit), allowing for versatile use in a wide range of scenes. 

Adopting a lens configuration of 9 groups and 11 elements, including 3 aspherical lenses and 3 extra-low dispersion (ED) lenses, XF16-50mm suppresses chromatic aberration and maintains high-resolution performance throughout the zoom range. In addition to its high-resolution performance, XF16-50mm also has a close-up capability equivalent to roughly half that of macrophotography in 35mm format, making it effective for photographing food, crafts, plants, and various everyday scenes. 

Product Features 

Lightweight Design 

By optimizing the placement of the lens, XF16-50mm has a weight of approximately 240 grams (8.5 ounces), making it the lightest zoom lens in the XF lens lineup to date. 

The constant-length design, in which the lens does not extend during zooming, provides a truly comfortable zoom operation for users. 

Fast and accurate Autofocus 

XF16-50mm uses the inner focus method, which drives a compact and lightweight group of focus lenses with a linear motor. In addition, the high-speed and high precision autofocus system, achieved through the miniaturization of the focus lens group, creates accurate AF within approximately 0.015 seconds

5 Autofocus speed on the wide-angle end, using an internal measurement method compliant with the CIPA Guidelines, when mounted on the FUJIFILM X-T4 mirrorless digital camera and with Phase Detection AF and High Performance mode activated.. . 

Pricing and Availability for FUJIFILM X-T50 and FUJINON XF16-50mm 

FUJIFILM X-T50 digital camera will be available in Black, Charcoal Silver, and Silver with expected availability in June 2024 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $1,399.95 USD ($1889.99 CAD). Additionally, Fujifilm plans to introduce a kit featuring X-T50 and FUJINON XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens, at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $1,499.95 USD ($1,999.99 CAD). 

FUJINON XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR lens is also expected to be available in June 2024, at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $699.95 USD ($949.99 CAD). 

Alongside the release of the FUJINON XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR lens, Fujifilm plans to introduce kits featuring this lens with its FUJIFILM X-T50, FUJIFILM X-T5, and FUJIFILM X-S20 mirrorless digital cameras, each of which feature in-body image stabilization designed to maximize the lens’s performance. Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price of the X-T50 kit variations will be as follows:

FUJIFILM X-T50 with XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR Lens Kit: MSRP $1,799.95 USD ($2,429.99 CAD) 

There is something very special about seeing a full range of an artist work for the first time.
The current exhibit of LaToya Ruby Frazier’s current full body of work, is one that already requires me to see multiple times.

It is thick and rich, with so many stories of the human condition, affected by the outside influences of the industrialized vagaries, it will be time well spent.

When you enter the gallery, you will see family and friend portraits, sometimes integrated with the artist in a self portrait.
Beautifully made, emotional connections, told in black and white. This is just the beginning of the viewers journey.

As you make your way throughout the massive space, you will get a few places to sit and hear some of the background audio describing artist events, like her performance outside of a Levi’s pop-up.
Or have a seat and listen to the stories of some of her subjects.

This is not just a display that you wander through, stopping at an image or two for further examination.

Take your time, and listen to the stories, and read about the subjects.
There is text coupled with photos as well, to give you a fuller understanding of the subjects situation.

From MOMA: :the sequence of original installations that she calls “monuments for workers’ thoughts,” which address the harmful effects of industrialization and deindustrialization, the healthcare inequities facing Black working-class communities in the Rust Belt, the ongoing water crisis in Flint, Michigan, and the impact of the closure of a General Motors plant in Lordstown, Ohio. Monuments of Solidarity celebrates the expressions of creativity, mutual support, and intergenerational collaboration that persist in light of these denials of fundamental labor, human, and civil rights. As a form of Black feminist world-building, these nontraditional “monuments” demand recognition of the crucial role that women and people of color have played and continue to play in histories of labor and the working class.”
“it is incumbent upon me to resist—one photograph at a time, one photo essay at a time, one body of work at a time, one book at a time, one workers’ monument at a time—historical erasure and historical amnesia,” says artist-activist LaToya Ruby Frazier.

All in all, MOMA has brought this activist artist to a space, with proper exposition of her body of work.

You may want to pick up the catalog, in case you can’t make multiple visits, to read all of the texts. Photographs are beautifully reproduced in the volume.

It happens a couple of times a year:

The Magnum Square Print Sale!

Each sale always has a theme and this time it’s exploring the theme Fable, celebrating the symbiosis between visual and written narratives through a collaboration with three writers, who have composed stories and poetry inspired by a selection of images from the sale.⁠                                                                                                                    Each of the 85 images featured are available as signed or estate-stamped, museum-quality 6×6″ prints.

This is your opportunity to pick-up a right sized print, by an acknowledged master of the photographic arts.
These 6″x6″ prints are an affordable way for you to curate your collection with a high end accent image.

USA. British filmmaker Alfred HITCHCOCK, during the filming of “The Birds”. 1962.

How do I know?
I have 3 prints from previous Square Print Sales, framed and hung in strategic places in my 1 bedroom NYC apt: Jacob Aue Sobol, Elliott Erwitt, and Mary Ellen Mark. But those are my tastes.
As everyone knows, the way you hang your art is dependent on the physical flow of your place.
Eye-level, note how people, or yourself, travel through your space, and where the eyes go naturally.
That is where you want to hang these gems.
Because of the size, I did have archival mattes cut, although the frames came from Blick.
Go to the site, and select your faves.

1959. Jack and Miriam in bed in Bronxville, watching Jack’s show.

At $110 USD per, you can’t go wrong.
Trust me, I was just at AIPAD, and the print prices (yes, much larger) were much higher!

USA. New York City. 1992. ©Bruce Gilden

These prints are only available til Sunday, May 5, 11:59 p.m. EDT

Highly recommend you pick up some!

The oldest photography show, AIPAD,  opened today 4/25, in a return to the classic venue of the Park Avenue Armory.
In speaking with the gallerists, everyone is thrilled.
With over 76 photography galleries from around the globe, no matter what your taste of style, it is represented here. And take a memory home to review, consider for purchase, or share.

One thing I always try to do is discover new work that challenges me, as well as revel in seeing some of my classic favorites in person.

So we’ll consider a few of those.

Sharon Walters, represented by HackelBury in the UK, exhibited unique pieces, with a singular,  one of a kind style.

By printing only one copy of an image, she uses a knife to cut away what is not needed. Like a sculptor. This piece below is juts one and a small one, that is represented.

Check out her short interview on my IG stories.

And there is Tatiana Parcero, from JDC Galleries

Using a combination of studio life studies and overlays of documents like astrological maps, naturalist drawings, she has created a message about the humanity and nature.

The overlays create a sense of depth that draws you in and has detail that keeps you there.

Casper Faasen, represented by Bildhalle Gallery, shares images of porcelain vases that appear behind slightly crackled fronts, creating a shadow box feeling. The images encased have a minimal bow in them to emphasize the shape. Come to the show to experience a full wall of them

Yes, you can sense a theme of what caught me.

There were the classics and the stalwarts of the galleries have a great, strong presence.

This is one of my favorite images of all time, made by Henri Cartier-Bresson.

Nothing like seeing a large print in person of one of Stephen Wilkes Day to Night Series, Flatiron.

And c’mon who doesn’t love a great Elliott Erwitt dog photo that greets you as you enter the venue:

Do not forget about the artist talks, and of course the book publishers who have their own special section on the right before you entire the main floor

You can relax and have a seat and bite or beverage,

You can “discuss” the work, with others,

and throughout the show, there are comfy benches to get off your feet, stare into the booths, and maybe just review your own photos.

It’s on through Sunday, and like every year a must see, to discover, and maybe add to your collection.

I know the galleries would love that!

I am a sucker for beautiful nature docs. National Geographic has been making these top quality films for years, and their brand stamp means you will get an engaging, brilliantly crafted experience every time, with a message to expand your knowledge of the natural world around us.

A week ago, we were all looking to the sky for the solar eclipse, so let’s reverse it and look at that magic of the ocean and its creatures.

With Nat Geo & Disney+, you have a new series to binge, created by Adam Geiger, James Cameron’s Director of Photography, and on this project he was director/writer/producer/director of photography.

Director and cinematographer, Adam Geiger, on board a dive vessel in Port Phillip Bay. (photo credit: National Geographic/Harriet Spark)

Over the last two-plus years, Geiger has dedicated himself to “Secrets of the Octopus,” spending about a year of that time underwater with eight key octopus species around the world.

Camera Assistant, Woody Spark, and Associate Producer, Harriet Spark, set up a special remote underwater camera system to film Day octopus (Octopus cyanea) on the Great Barrier Reef. (photo credit: National Geographic/Adam Geiger)

When I first saw this trailer below, I was hooked.

And I had questions!

Luckily, those questions were shared with the Adam Geiger, the DP and creator of this series:

Cinematographer, Rory McGuinnes, operating an underwater jib arm to film a colorful coral reef on the Lembeh Strait. (National Geographic for Disney/Adam Geiger)

A Dorado Octopus. (mandatory photo credit: Schmidt Ocean Institute)

Director and cinematographer, Adam Geiger, preparing to descend on a dive to film Day octopus (Octopus cyanea) on the Great Barrier Reef. (photo credit: National Geographic/Harriet Spark)

I hope some of your questions were answered.

I always want to know the BTS!

The “Secrets of the Octopus” premieres April 21st at 8/7c  on National Geographic and all episodes stream April 22nd Disney+.

If you are like me, and have a “few” camera bags, they are all situation dependent. Stealth, Utilitarian, & Travel.

One thing I didn’t have is a bag that I could bring into black tie event without sticking out.
Grams (28) has come to market with a beautifully made leather bag, designed with the photographer in mind.

Well Crafted, this bag sits ergonomically right on my shoulder, and has all the pockets and space needed.

Each detail has been well thought out, and was smooth working. Zippers, interior pockets, closures, and as you can see above, even the shoulder strap looks, and works, great. Continue Reading »

The amount of coverage this event has generated is incredible!
If you are lucky enough to live in the path of totality, or even partial like in NYC, there are best practices for shooting the Solar Eclipse safely.

Presented by an astrophotographer, here is the link : https://tinyurl.com/natgeoabceclipse

 “Eclipse Across America” will simulcast live from 2:00-4:00 p.m. EDT across multiple Disney linear networks, including ABC, Nat Geo and Nat Geo WILD, as well as across direct-to-consumer platforms, including Disney+ and Hulu (via ABC News Live channel). Viewers will be able to watch the program from anywhere — TV, mobile, computers and more — on ABC News’ 24/7 streaming channel, ABC News Live

And yes, I’m ready to see what I can see, with proper filters: Continue Reading »

Think about the light you need, either as a creative solution, or because it’s too darn dark!

Chances are you have either a built-in flash on your camera, or hopefully, a separate unit.
Now, we’re not going to get into studio lighting as that is a massive subject, and just want to look at the more portable illumination here.

As a start, for events you really should use a separate flash, and you can either go to the camera manufacturers proprietary units, OR go high end with Profoto, OR more affordable Godox.
Let’s first look at the on-camera flash, units that are mounted onto the camera, as above.
One thing that I’ve always preferred, especially in daytime events, is a flash directly on camera with exposure compensating for the background and allowing it to still be seen and not throw your subject in a black hole.
Like the photo above, and below:

You can either mount the flash right into the hot shoe, as you can see above,

or use a custom bracket placing it on the same level as the camera,

or use a transmitter/ receiver situation, or  direct cable from the flash to the camera body, and using the flash off to the side, above, bounced or however you have to adjust for the environment and your personal style.

Here is how Vivian Maier did it:

And a photog from the recent Oscars:

Let’s go all Goldilocks on your possible options.

The Small:
I wanted to bring you a compact solution using a Fuji X100 series camera, and what I think, is one of the best tiny flash units out there: The EF-X20. Here it is mounted on the top. As you can see by the dials, you have a TTL option, and the lever on the side widens the flash reach. Don’t hate me, but it may only be available via EBAY. Worth it!

Have a look at this compact set-up below, and as you can see, you can either mount the small flash in the hot show, or for an off-camera flash lighting, adding in a set of Light Q transmitter receiver. So tiny. One thing to note is that they only work with the flash in Manual and not TTL. (the Light Q here is V1 and improvements may have been made in subsequent versions)

If you know how you shoot, and can assume your exposure consistency, you are good to go.
Yes, of course, determine your preferred distance from subjects, and desired DOF.
Flash runs on 2 AAA batts, so bring plenty. Recycle time is not stellar, but not the point with this set-up. Lower the output, and move closer.
The Medium:

Throw on a Fuji EF-60, or a Godox. Solid output, and you can just go with a transmitter on the camera if off-cam shooting, or just pop it on the body.
Wireless transmitters that does allows for TTL are the FUJIFILM EF-W1 Wireless Commander, that lives on the body, and can fire off the flash from the camera without a second receiver on the flash.

Batteries again, and of course use the rechargeble eneloops or similar. Bring a bunch!

The Large:
In this scenario, the camera is full size, and a Profoto A10.

Profoto makes transmitters specifically for your camera, so make sure you get the right one.
With a fast recycle time, rechargeable batteries, beautiful menu, and a round head, this is a main choice for an event where you will be able to probably shoot a 3-4 hour event with 4 rechargeable batteries. You can see above that I put a label on a rechargeable battery as there are 2 capacity options, A1 and A1X.

Also, with a flash of this size, you can add bounce cards/reflectors to the unit to soften or simply customize the light you want to work with.
As with all camera gear, what you use, depends on what you’re shooting. PLUS they make a wireless transmitter to sit on top of your camera. Connects immediately! Once again, match the transmitter to the flash and you camera brand.

In my EDC, is a Fuji x100, the EF-X20, and the Light Q transmitter/receiver set. The  option.

For a family/ friend’s event, you may want to go medium, so the gear is not overwhelming for your subjects. C’mon, you know them and want to keep it light (sorry).
For a full-on event- indoor or outdoor, wedding, business event, music (probably rock only, and be judicious with your flash!) even a portrait in a pinch.
This becomes, without question, the large option. For me the quality of the light, recycling time, and dependability,
Yes, it’s all about the look you are hoping for.

Now , it also comes down to how you are mounting the flash, if on camera.

There are 2 brackets I swear by- The Custom Brackets CB Mimi-RC.

Small, single pice brackets that holds the flash just in front of the camera body.

The other secret weapon I carry is the Newton Bracket. Not made anymore, but so well machined, and allows you to shift your flash from top to side, depending on your camera orientation. I usually don’t like sharing gear that is not currently made, but they have some on EBAY. Another item worth the hunt in my opinion.

There you have a basic breakdown of gear I use, and different combos.

There are other light modifiers I carry, but this collection are the basics, and used situation dependent.

Always remember to test your set-up before shooting, and bring plenty of batteries!

I have seen a TON of docs of photographers, and honestly, most of them concentrate on the image, and leave the stories of the heart, soul, and origins of the photographers behind.
Don’t get me wrong, I love seeing the process of the making of an image.
To me, knowing how the photographer got to the image and their personal journey is just as important.
Starting on March 18th, dropping on Hulu and Disney +, is a new series called Photographer, from National Geographic.

6 separate documentaries on some of the best photographers today.

From AcademyⓇ and EmmyⓇ Award-winning filmmakers E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, from Free Solo, you get a full picture, pardon me, of the artist behind their journey. With 8 incredible directors, they have brought an important series to the public about some of the finest Nat Geo photographers, told by some of the best documentary filmmakers I’ve seen.
Too much hyperbole? It’s all warranted. Continue Reading »

If you have been on any social media in the past couple of year, you know that the FujiFilm 100V has been one of the most sought after cameras.

Admittedly, i have using one of the X100 series for years, and it’s been the camera I grab when going out on the streets of NY. Lightweight, top notch optics, leaf shutter, and as i went through various models in the line, love all of the improvements along the way. Yes, I did pick-up the tl lens ad-on , and have used it in venues where it made the most sense. Easy to carry as well as fitting on all of the line-up as I upgrade to new models

Articulating LCD, and the more megapixels were the big ones for me on the X100V, and now they went above and beyond with the X100VI!

So, new processor with 40.2 megapixels, PLUS 5-axis image stabilization good up to 6 stops, and add in 20 film simulations for your creative choices. I usually just go with an Acros versions, and sometimes Provia. I shoot RAW so only used for jpeg export from camera.

And to further increase the versatility, this new model has 6.2K/30P movie recording capabilities.

There is a slight bit of additional LCD articulation, and I’ll take it!

The good news is also that the batteries from previous bodies can be used here, so no need to re-buy!

Size wise- it’s pretty much the same size as the X100V.

Of course the question is: Should you buy?

If you are not a current of the X100V, no question. And we have been told that availability should not be an issue. Fuji learned.

Should you upgrade? If you already have a X100V, you may not want to spend the dough, unless you can sell it.

The hot market may cool off, once the x100V1 once is available. I’m sure you will get a good price as it is still a sweet camera.

However, with all of the additional features, like IBIS and a 40.2 megapixel brand new sensor, your street work can get a huge upgrade.

And the price? About $1600 USD , and available in black or silver

And do want to mention the special edition X100VI:

Limited Edition X100VI Units:

To celebrate Fujifilm’s 90th anniversary year in 2024, a special Limited Edition of 1,934 X100VI cameras will be made available by Fujifilm, worldwide. The Limited Edition camera body is engraved with the corporate brand logo from Fujifilm’s founding in 1934, and each unit bears a unique serial number. These numbered X100VI units are packaged in a special, soft-release box that includes a special strap and Fujifilm history cards. The Limited Edition X100VI units will be available in extremely limited quantities and vary depending geographical location. Please contact your local Fujifilm sales and marketing company to explore the opportunity to purchase the item in your area.

This will be available for about $2000.

Fujifilm Debuts X100VI
Mirrorless Digital Camera X100VI’s iconic dial-based design and advanced technology includes new features for content creators of all types; special limited edition also announced in celebration of Fujifilm’s 90th anniversary
FUJIFILM North America Corporation is pleased to officially announce the highly anticipated launch of FUJIFILM X100VI digital camera (“X100VI”, pronounced X100 Six), the newest model in the popular X100 Series. X100VI offers outstanding image quality in a compact, lightweight body, and features Fujifilm’s legendary color reproduction technology, which is best experienced through its revered Film Simulation modes, a feature, users have come to expect from all Fujifilm digital cameras, along with In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) and enhanced video capabilities.

Product Features:

• X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR and X-Processor 5 deliver high image quality and high performance X100VI is equipped with the back-illuminated X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR sensor1 with approximately 40.2 megapixels. The sensor has an impressive pixel structure that allows light to be efficiently captured compared to prior X100 Series cameras. Additionally, ISO 125, which on the previous X100V model was only an extended sensitivity option, is now available natively on the X100VI. With its fixed, 23mmF2.0 lens, X100VI delivers sharp, high-resolution images.

• X100VI comes with 20 of Fujifilm’s popular Film Simulation modes, including the new REALA ACE mode, which applies a diverse range of distinctive tones to the user’s images. REALA ACE mode offers faithful color reproduction and high-contrast tonality, making it suitable for a wide variety of subjects and situations.

• The camera incorporates an impressive autofocus (AF) prediction algorithm for reliable focusing, even when recording continuously-moving subjects. X100VI uses the subject detection AF X-Processor 5 to accurately track a range of subjects. Built using deep-learning AI technology, it can detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects, and drones2.

  • Enhanced high performance to maximize X100VI’s range X100VI is the first camera in the X100 Series to incorporate a 5-axis, in-body image stabilization function with up to 6.0 stops, while generally maintaining the X100 Series’ characteristic compact size and lightweight, only having increased in weight by 1.52 ounces over the previous model.The “Advanced Hybrid Viewfinder” allows the user to switch freely between the optical viewfinder (OVF) and the electronic viewfinder (EVF), pursuing the rangefinder style of photography that has been a hallmark of the X100 Series.

• The EVF is equipped with a high-resolution OLED panel with approximately 3.69 million dots, optimizing the immersive shooting experience. The “Electronic Range Finder” (ERF) function allows a small EVF to be simultaneously displayed on the OVF. Using this feature, the photographer can view either the entire frame or the area of critical focus, increasing the capabilities of a standard optical viewfinder. The ERF function is highly convenient, especially for street photography. 2 Subject detection setting should be on “Bird” to detect insects, and on “Aircraft” to detect drones.

  CIPA compliant, Pitch/yaw direction, when EVF/LCD is used

• X100VI is capable of 6.2K/30P movie recording, a first for the X100 Series. The camera is also equipped with a tracking AF function during movie recording to ensure high-quality content creation.

  X100VI offers an accessory-free, native Camera to Cloud integration for Adobe’s Frame.io, which allows users to wirelessly connect any X100VI to an active internet connection, authenticate it to Frame.io, and automatically upload photos and videos just moments after they are created. This can drastically reduce the amount of time needed to reach the end of any post-production workflow. X100VI is the latest in FUJIFILM‘s digital camera portfolio to integrate Frame.io’s Camera to Cloud technology, joining X-H2, X-H2S, and GFX100 II in offering the capability.

  • Sophisticated, functional product design As with the prior model, aluminum is used for the top and bottom surfaces of the X100VI body. Aluminum, which features a high degree of malleability, is pressed and machined for crisp, clean edges, and the surface is finely blasted for a smooth texture. In addition, anodized aluminum is used on the camera surface to produce a high-quality finish.

• X100VI’s ultra-thin tilt LCD monitor can be stored in a fully flat position, a design leveraged from the X100V. The stylish, integrated body design allows for a variety of shooting styles, from high to low angles. The shape of the grip has been fine-tuned to ensure a secure yet comfortable feel. The positions of the buttons on the back of X100VI have been designed to maximize ease of operation with the right hand, enabling extremely comfortable shooting while utilizing the viewfinder.

• Wide variety of compatible accessories enhance X100VI’s capabilities Weather resistance is available for X100VI when the optional AR-X100 adapter ring (MSRP $49.99 USD/$50.00 CAD, available in silver and black) and the PRF-49 protection filter (MSRP $55.99 USD/$70.00 CAD) are used in conjunction with X100VI’s lens. This allows the user to continue making images in challenging weather conditions.

• Fujifilm’s optional LH-X100 lens hood (MSRP $139.99 USD/$100.00 CAD, available in black and silver) is also compatible with X100VI. In addition to being lightweight and precisely crafted from machined metal, the hood is cleverly designed not to obstruct the field of view when looking through the viewfinder, thus achieving light-shielding performance.

• Two separately offered FUJIFILM conversion lenses allow the user to change the focal length without changing the optical performance of X100VI, thereby enhancing the photographic field. WCL-X100 II (MSRP $349.95 USD/$450.00 CAD, available in silver and black) is a dedicated wide conversion lens that multiplies the fixed focal length by approximately 0.8x, converting it to 28mm (35mm format equivalent), while the TCL-X100 II (MSRP $349.95 USD/$450.00 CAD, available in silver and black) is a dedicated teleconversion lens for narrowing the field of view by multiplying the fixed focal length by approximately 1.4x, converting it to 50mm (35mm format equivalent).

• Adding the separately offered, LC-X100V genuine leather case (MSRP $79.99 USD/$100.00 CAD) ensures the X100VI can be carried in style. The battery and the user’s memory card can be inserted and removed from the camera without the need to remove the camera from this case.

Pricing and Availability:
X100VI is expected to be available from Fujifilm dealers early March 2024 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $1,599.95 USD and $2,159.99 CAD.
X100VI Limited Edition is expected to be available directly from Fujifilm commencing in late March 2024 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $1,999.95 USD and $2,699.99 CAD.
For more information about X100VI, please visit this link .

I have a great deal of respect for companies that are dedicated to their product line, and of course to their customers.

Yes, there are all of the camera manufacturers, who know once you are in a system, you will probably stay, unless you have unlimited funds. We could talk forever on each one, and why they are awesome.

I’m talking about the companies that support all of your image making, because if you don’t have the best output, it doesn’t matter what gear you had in your hand.

Think of brands like Adobe who are all about the digital image, and they maintain the product line and support for all that. Not hardware, but software.
Then you have a company like Datacolor who is dedicated to ensuring that all of the work you do looks great : When you are making the image, and then exporting the result. Yes, I’ve had more than a couple of posts where they were featured, but employing their full line is obviously something I take seriously.

Let’s go through some of the product line, and why I depend on them for my workflow.
Once you employ their tools, It’s all about getting the baseline, as in a correctly exposed and accurate file as they were shot. Once you have a baseline, let your creatives juices flow.

Starting from the right place is the idea, a little bit like starting with RAW, relatively untouched files.

For me, the first step is starting with a calibrated monitor.
What that means is that the monitor you are editing with should be calibrated to a standard color band. Not that you wouldn’t get creative,  and make sure the look of the photo or video has your look on it when you finish working on it.
This will ensure that you started with a  correct baseline. If you are not working with a calibrated monitor, the work you put into image, may not look the same once you get it into other environments. Like a book, or prints.
Enter the Spyder X2 Ultra calibration device.

It is so easy to calibrate your monitor, and the Datacolor software walks you through it.
Maybe it’s a 2 min process.
Essentially, you first set the device near your monitor on your desk so it can read the light in the room. (more on that in a sec)  Then the software walks you through the steps to hang the device onto your screen, as it cycles through the calibration process.

At the end you can save the profile for, perhaps, how your camera exposes in certain situations, like a wedding or event photographer who uses a certain lighting setup, even flash-on camera, and here is a bonus feature :
Monitors don’t keep their corrections forever. Just a fact of life. The Datacolor software sends you a reminder every month, so you know when to refresh the settings. I kinda like it when this pops up on my screen. A gentle reminder.

Genius!!

One thing to remember is that when you are working on a screen, the ambient light in your room will affect the perceived color.
In my day job, I produce commercials , and when we have been in the remote world, my biggest issue has been trying to see, on my home office screen, as close as I can get to the colorist screen.
How do they know what my ambient light is?
The Spyder X2 Ultra solves this issue, by having a sensor that takes that light by your monitor into account, as shown blow

And there is an additional feature in the software where you can turn on automatic ambient light adjustment. They took into consideration that the light in your post production area may shift during the day. You just have to leave the unit plugged in, and it will adjust your monitor(s)

OK, you have set your monitors, and you have a confirmed color, or a black and white baseline.

Next part of the equation, are the compact, portable color charts.                                                                                                      They are always in my camera bag, as the size allows for that.

One is dedicated to still photography. The Spyder Checkr Photo is a set of 4 color and B&W charts, set in a click stop case. Small, locking , and you can even replace the charts if you get a smudge or hand grease on it.
The way it works is that you preset the standard chart in your computer, and this can be done with include software and images.
When you are about to shoot, take and shot of the color chart near your subject, so that the lighting is similar. All about the light falling on the color chart.

Easy Peasy. I even have used it on the street, where I may photograph the chart, and then at least to have a standard to deviate from.

When you return to your post production set-up, take the shot of the color chart from your shoot and match it up to the sample. Then you Edit in Spyder and set the color.

Here is how you do that in LightRoom: go to Photo>Edit In>pick edit in SpyderCheckr (yes you do need to have the software installed on your computer for it to show up in the Edit In options)

Then there is a video equivalent color chart. Spyder Checkr Video.
Here is a basic video to give you a look at how it operates.
This works kind of in the same way as the photo checkr. However, the color correction is a bit more complex in video, as you are making adjustment on vector scopes that you use in your editing software, like Premiere  or DaVinci.

You still shoot some frames of the color chart and B&W reference. Go into the vector scope and match up the value from the chart
Do white balance, hue, and saturation for each scene that you captured
More for an advanced user, but starting with great color and exposure, before you add your creative looks.

And the PDF instructions for use. 

How else can you ensure a quality image?
As we are dealing with light, the way light falls on a subject can tell you about proper exposure.
Datacolor makes a very cool product called SpyderCube cube that has a ¼-20 thread so you can introduce it into a scene, and see how the light falls using black, grey and white surfaces to let you know when to add or subtract light in post, and get proper exposure in your working file.

There is also a reflective ball on top. Basically calibrating for the specular highlights. Use the highlight slider to adjust for that. Grey, and white sides to generally balance, and an interested black hole on the bottom, which represents the total absence of light.

All of these factors will lead you to a well balanced, and properly exposed image. Of course the color charts will give you much more information, and if you are shooting for a client with a packaged product especially, exact color reproduction is critical. We call these “color correct props” that are generally created by companies that specialize in this, and work from files that have been approved by a brand. Not what you may buy off the shelf.  As a photographer/director, you are responsible for making sure the product is accurate.

I recently published a book of photographs, and the need for correct color was never more critical.                                                            Before you go to press, you have to make sure that the files you supply are what you want the final image to look like. Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra was the only way to go.

I was able to review PDF layouts from the publisher, and because I was looking at them on a calibrated monitor, if any adjustments were needed, I could easily see what they were.

Plus, the X2 Ultra accommodates multiple monitors, and as I was using 2, it allowed a perfect color matching on both
You know what they say, GIGO: garbage in, garbage out.

The Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra is my go-to monitor tool, and I depend on it.
The color charts are always in my bag, as the size doesn’t take up much room.
The Cube can be used  even if you don’t want to bring out the full color chart: small, easily held by a subject in a portrait situation.    Even a location portrait!

There is another product of theirs that is more geared to my older kit of Nikon DSLRs.
It’s the DSLR’s that allow you to set your lenses focal point.
It’s called a Spyder LensCal.

What this product does is let you calibrate (that word again!) your lens to make sure that it’s focusing correctly. On my older Nikons I could adjust a critical focus point, and used this tool. When I first tried this, I was shocked how slightly misaligned some of my lenses were.

With current cameras, I would only use it to set a main focus point and then know what the depth of field was. Super niche and not sure you need it.

Have a look at their full product line. And if you are someone who prints, Spyder Print maybe the product you need:

“The Spyder Print software creates a fully editable, custom profile to ICC standards. You’ll get the most color-accurate reproduction of your image files and reduce ink and paper waste from repeated print outputs while optimizing the performance of your printer.”

Paper and ink waste has always been a problem for me, when I printed. Creating a custom profile could help your print sales.

It’s a poor craftsman who blames their tools, but you must keep them in proper order.
I have seen sales on these items from time to time, you can get set-up, and

Make sure your images from 2024 are all that they can be.
As I said in the beginning, Datacolor, as a company, is dedicated to this.

Happy New Year!
I think we can all agree that 2023 was challenging on so many levels.
But we all made it through!
On to 2024, and a new device to maybe help you keep your calm, and focus.
It’s something I keep in my nightstand and take it when I travel.
Whether you have stressful shoots, attend business affairs with a lot riding on it, or just look at this year ahead and know there will be a bit of tumult, this little unit will help calm the waters.
Nothing artificial, nothing you put inside your body.
It’s the Morphee Zen Pebble:

72 audio sessions designed by relaxation experts. Continue Reading »

First posted this about a year ago, but I think that it deserves another posting. When you go out , or party in for New Years. sure the phone may be your camera of choice, and maybe everything you see is so transitory that am IG story, or Snap will suffice.

But maybe the people you ring in the 2024 with, and the events surrounding it deserves a real life, in your hand, photograph. The printer below will let you take any image from your phone and print it out. Add a cardboard frame to make sure it’s displayed

The instant print game is pretty much owned by Fuji with the Instax line of printers.
That is not an opinion, it a fact.
As an Instax enthusiast forever, I love the instant gratification of the print in hand, and while I enjoy all the phone filters I can use to digitally share photos, there is something about a physical thing in your hand.

Have a look at this vid for a great walk through at this new addition: Continue Reading »

As the year ends, a little look back on how Photoinduced came to be.
After leaving a production executive position at a large ad agency late 2004, I wanted to see what was around the corner.
There was an idea that had been rambling around my head for awhile.
A place for photographers to go with a wide range of subjects addressing all of the joys of the world of photography.
Interviews with masters, gear reviews, gallery notices, and resources. This is what became Photoinduced.
Below is a post from 5 years ago about the journey, which continues today.
My deepest thanks to all of the loyal readers, the brands that have shared the latest in tech, and the photographers I have the utmost respect for, whom I’ve had the honor to interview.
This is kind of an origin story.
#TBT
13 years ago today, I woke up and wrote the 5 pg draft to a new business idea. A website, tied to on-demand content, with video downloadable to a phone for mobile consumption. There was a cable channel woven in, and a social media play (not sure if I called it that back then) It was photography based, and not my photography, but photography as a whole. Some of you out there may remember signing an NDA.
Yes, people thought I was nuts making a digital play, and who would have watched any full up video on a phone? Pipes
were not built yet to handle that, and phones were flip or blackberry.
Continue Reading »

Sure, there was Black Friday.
Then Cyber Monday
Then Green Monday.
And the sales continue..
If you are looking to make some purchase before year end, you are in luck!
I keep getting emails about sales continuing this week. Everyone wants to end the year on a high note, including the stores.
Here is also a link to all of the Holiday Gift Guides of 2023
What to get?
Well, as always, this is usually the best time to grab some media cards and hard or SSD drives. Prices seem to hover in a good place this time of year.
Then I would highly recommend getting your self a new Wacom tablet, and even if you have one, the latest ones, with BT and touch capabilities, make them the best computer base tool out there for your editing, and honestly, your everyday use thanks to that touch pad capability

Continue Reading »

Whether you’re traveling or working from the home office, you need the right tools.
Or maybe it’s just the coffee shop, you want tools to help make it as easy as possible.
This is a big category, and I’ll try to group them into categories.

All of the items here I have used in the real world, and highly recco. The photos are large so you can see the details.

At home:
First of all, you want to have your laptop at a proper angel for comfort.
Twelve South has a perfect stand for that: The Curve

It’s a great height, and I just add on a  bluetooth keyboard and trackpad.
Then you want to be able to use your phone to possibly face time while reviewing work on the computer. Rolling Square makes a well-made, and elegant solution for this.

Reviewed here as well. 
With a modular system and magnets, your magsafe phone can be attached to your laptop and angle to the perfect spot. And it folds or is removable for travel.
Pick up an additional mag plate and one of their lights and you have a sleek working environment. Or even a charging plate.
A great stocking stuffer, is their InCharge  6 in 1 charging cable. Always have the right connector! Continue Reading »

Ok, let’s talk about audio.
You know that it’s 50% of your content, unless it’s bad. Then it’s 80%

Yes, this list hasn’t changed a lot from last year, except for a few big additions:

When you want to go more mobile, and connect directly into your camera , or to a portable mixer, the latest from Rode, the Rode Wireless Pro just works . With a receiver and 2 wireless mics, you can quickly hook up your subjects for an interview situation. Plus this new setup gets you 2 lavalier mics for a more discreet mic situation.And finally, a compact charging and storage cage. In NYC, I’ve seen the local news station using these as they cover the local beat.

This new version features a 32 bit float, which is essentially a secondary recording that can ensure a quality recording when you go to edit. N0t able to use direct into your camera, but it’s your audio  insurance. Read more about 32 bit floats here.
Good news is that it is also compatible with a lot of other Rode products. Honestly it may be a bit harder to find due to the popularity, but worth the hunt.

Another solid choice is the Deity Duo, Continue Reading »

I hope you all had a relaxing holiday and got to spend time giving thanks.
And if you were clicking the keyboard or hitting the stores, we all know that Black Friday gives way to Cyber Monday!
To be honest, I always feel that it’s SSD/hard drives, and media cards that can be the best deals on these 2 days.
As we move into the cooler months, nothing beats sitting down and turning the pages of a great photo book.

Here are the photobook gift suggestions for this year:

Any book by Paul Nicklen!
Paul, and his partner Cristina Mittermeier make the most amazing and beautiful photographs of our natural world.

Paul is a SeaLegacy co-founder, National Geographic photographer, acclaimed ocean conservationist, and TED Talks favorite, Paul Nicklen traces his extraordinary love affair with the polar regions in his most recent book, Born to Ice. His powerful images of iconic arctic and Antarctic wildlife and scenery, coupled with his inspiring photographic storytelling, blends ethereal beauty of the icy landscape with a compelling call to action.
Yes, previous descriptor was the official word. Continue Reading »

It has been an interesting year in the world of image making.
There is major emphasis on content creators, and the equipment they may need.
And Black Friday sales will be active on these brands, with highlighted products below:
Joby, Pivo, Platypod, and LumeCube and Ankerworks

Usually the biggest deal are on Black Friday, but don’t stress: Cyber Monday is right around the corner!

Let’s break it down from basic to major:First of all, if you are using a phone to create, the first you need is the Joby Bluetooth remote control. Turn your phone recording on and off from a distance. Pairs fast on your phone, dependable. Great tool.

A perfect gift for the mobile creator is the Joby Beamo magsafe light. Giving 4 hours of light, this light attached to a mag safe phone, and if you don’t have one, they include a thin metal ring to place in your case of phone back. Continue Reading »

Not like “This is not a pipe” (Ceci n’est pas une pipe) the famous painting by Rene Magritte, below

Nothing like that. Well, maybe a little borrowed concept for the sake of this post.

Instead it’s a bit of memory that has a photo of an object as it’s touch point.

When I was a kid, we used to have thanksgiving dinner at our apartment. The cousins always joined us, the good flatware came out, and that’s just what you did.
Mom cooked the turkey in a paper bag to keep it at a certain moisture level, and the pies were a sweet pecan.
But the appetizer was the most unique item.
A seafood mixture with a creamy binder, the origins of which I can’t remember, and bread crumbs.

All mixed together and served in shells. Like the one shown above.
Continue Reading »

And here we go!
It seems like this year, the end of year sales have been coming earlier and earlier!
Since I wouldn’t want you to miss some of the great deals out there, we’re gonna start with software.
Of course, all of the software below have great savings this year, so if you want to grab a deal , or gift someone, now is the time!

No wrapping needed.

For all of your basic daily needs, there are 2 main players: Lightroom and Capture One. The world is split!

Lightroom is my jam, and it’s DAM (digital asset management) helps me locate the 360K images on my drives, plus be able to work some post production into the mix. The Creative Cloud also is a major daily set of apps that I use all the time. Plus when some of the designers I work with send a file over, I can generally open it with one of the apps in the CC.

Continue Reading »

So, a new Beatles song at #1, tours still happening, and now, a show of photographs by Sir Paul McCartney.

Below is one of my faves from the exhibit:

Paul McCartney (English, b. 1942)
George looking young, handsome and relaxed. Living the life. Miami Beach, February 1964
Photograph
©1964 Paul McCartney under exclusive license to MPL Archive LLP

Yes, it has been exhibited in the UK, although this will be the first showing in the States.

Should be an amazing perspective from one of the people on the other side of the camera at all times. I’d say it’s a book, less about the photography than the historical reference. To have that from one of the subjects of Beatlemania will please the most ardent Beatles fan.

The official word:

Continue Reading »

Sure, the deals are coming faster than ever this year, and in the coming days, the posts here will cover a range of gifts for the image maker in your life.
Or maybe just you!

With holidays here, your chances of hanging out with family are darn good, and I’d like to suggest something to you:

Interview and Record the elders in your family, and create a family history video that can be shared, cherished, and passed on.

When my grandmother was 92 and my daughter was 2, I saw them hanging out, and knew that the knowledge of family history my grandmother had would never get told, unless she told it.
Some family members felt it would be revisionist history. You know what? It was the only history we had.
And everyone sees life through their own eyes and experiences. No one is objective.
So I sat with Grandma Kate, and my daughter at one end of her bed, and proceeded to ask her questions.
Even if she didn’t know what she ate the morning before, she knew her personal history.
With a video camera in hand, I made a record for us of who were, where we came from, what my dad’s life was like, and look into the past that only she could provide.
Since then I have a made a bunch of these, and honestly, as you hone your interview skills, shooting skills, you will have made a very special gift for yourself and your family.

There is a reason that companys like Ancestry.com and DNA kits have become so popular. We want to know who we are, and knowing where we came from is a big step in that direction.

It’s up to you.
With your skill set, the tools, and during the holidays, the PERFECT opportunity, you can create a video that would bring a lotta happiness to your family.

The picture above is my father when he was a radio announcer in NYC.
Never got to interview him, and always wanted to share the sound of his voice with my daughter. Didn’t happen.

Give your new gear a run through with a purpose. Plenty of time for selfies.
Just a suggestion.

If you own a company, and still are making your year end purchases, coming up are more gift guides to help you make some gear decisions. Plus more.

My personal go-to purchases at this time of year are media cards and hard drives. Boring maybe, but essential, and best prices this time of year.

One thing to note is that there will not be camera systems in the gift guide. Every brand comes out with new and improved models, yet to switch systems is not and easy or cheap move. You know what you like, and perhaps the new global sensor is what you are after. Or you want to wait for the 2nd gen.

What will be posted in the next days will be gift ideas that will help you, or the giftee, in their image making life

As I start gathering all of the latest products for our annual Holiday Gift Guide, I’m seeing an interesting pattern:
It seem to be 2 major categories: Content Creation Tools, and pro-end products all designed to make your projects look the best that they can be.

Let’s start with this MagSafe light from Joby. Called the Beamo™ Ring Light for MagSafe

Imagine a ringlight with 4 levels of intensity, 4 hours of power, that can be attached to your phone by MagSafe.

This little unit is complete with a mirrored surface to make sure you are lit right, and the best part: it stays on the back of your phone with the beauty of MagSafe. Continue Reading »

How do we share these enriching experiences with a wider audience? In this digital age, social media reigns supreme, with IG reels and TikTok leading the way. Like it or not, it’s a fact.
Personally, I’ve embarked on a journey of increased content creation and discovered some invaluable tools along the way. When it comes to outdoor shoots, I’ve opted for a compact setup – I still shoot Fuji for those captivating stills reels and my trusty iPhone for additional IG reels and Tik Tok adventures.
I have kind of Frankestein-ed this from a variety of items in my general kit.
Depending on needs.

Here is a list:
*Platypod Extreme tripod Base
*Platypod Handle
*LumeCube phone holder
*LumeCube mini LED
*Manfrotto BallHead – (link is to a diff ballhead, than what is in the photos)
*Joby Impulse 2 Remote + (the secret weapon)
*Ankerwork M650 Microphones

Continue Reading »

The FujiFilm update to their medium format camera has been rumored and is now about to become available.

The GFX 100II will be here this fall!

What do you get different from the last model?
For one thing the learnings of the sensor on the X-H2s, you get an improved 102MP Sensor with faster and better AF. We all need that!
Burst shooting has gone from 5 FPS to 8 FPS Continue Reading »

After a week in NYC with a gear show, Bild Expo, and an art show, Photofair, it became a meld of great effect. Both were happening within feet of each other in the Javits Center.

Bild Expo was created by BHPhoto and since PhotoExpo isn’t around, this may become the new deal. To be able to check out the gear, speak to brands about what you may be wanted to capture, and talks by photographers about their journey, was invaluable.

While perusing the new offerings of the latest gear , it was clear that there was indeed, nothing new under the sun, but improvements on what existed.
Great to see some of the brands that I have seen for years, still upping their game, and seeing familiar faces.

And mere feet away was a collection of over 56 global photo galleries, so you could see what some practitioners of fine art photography were creating.

PhotoFair was exhibiting some of the best artists in the field, with 56 galleries, representing about 120 photographic artists, plus talks by folks like Dawoud Bey, in a very comfortable setting.

Inspiring to say the least. When you see a major showing of fine art photography, it’ll make you examine your own path. Or bring you into the world of collecting.
Continue Reading »

In September 2023, the city’s photography enthusiasts and professionals are in for a visual treat like no other. The Javits Center, nestled in the heart of Manhattan, is set to host two of the most anticipated photography events of the year: Bild Expo and Photofair.

Bild Expo: Where Creativity Meets Technology

Bild Expo, an annual photography exhibition and trade show, has become synonymous with cutting-edge technology and artistic innovation. In September 2023, it promises to be bigger and better than ever before. This year’s theme, “The Future of Photography,” is a nod to the dynamic fusion of traditional artistry and modern technology that defines the contemporary photography landscape.

Date: September 6-7 2023
Location: Javits Center, New York City

Key Highlights:

Exhibition Halls: Explore multiple exhibition halls showcasing the latest cameras, lenses, drones, and photography accessories from renowned brands. Get hands-on experience with the latest gear and see how technology is reshaping the photography industry.

Artistic Showcases: Witness the work of groundbreaking photographers, both emerging talents and established icons, in captivating gallery exhibitions. Get inspired by the diversity of visual narratives on display.

Educational Workshops: Learn from experts in a series of informative workshops covering topics ranging from lighting techniques and post-processing to storytelling through photography. Elevate your skills and gain insights into the industry’s latest trends.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow photographers, industry professionals, and potential collaborators. Build valuable relationships and expand your creative network.

Photo Walks: Join guided photo walks in the vicinity of the Javits Center, led by experienced photographers. Capture the city’s iconic landmarks and bustling streets through your lens.

Photofair: A Celebration of Photography’s Rich History

Running right after Bild Expo, Photofair offers a unique journey through the history of photography. This event celebrates  photography, with 120 of the leading masters of the art

Date: September 8-10, 2023
Location: Javits Center, New York City
Key Highlights:

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of photography, from its rich history to its cutting-edge future. Whether you’re a professional photographer, an enthusiast, or just curious about the art form, Bild Expo and Photofair at Javits Center in NYC this September 2023 promise to be an unforgettable experience that will ignite your passion for photography.

Prepare to be captivated, inspired, and moved by the incredible visual stories waiting to be discovered. Mark your calendars, pack your camera gear, and get ready to explore the limitless possibilities of photography in the heart of the city that never sleeps.

See you at Bild Expo and Photofair!

Story behind the shot(s)
Figured a good time to recount this event, as it’s the anniversary of Woodstock.

I was too young to go to Woodstock.
Bummer
Years later, there was an attempt at a re-creation bringing a ton of the folks that performed there.

Those that were still with us at that point.

Janis was gone, but Big Brother and the Holding company played.
Jimi, too, and his iconic version of the Star-Spangled Banner had to live in our collective memories.

Canned Heat, Chambers Brothers, Wavy Gravy, It’s a Beautiful Day, Country Joe & The Fish, Lee Michaels, and so many more played.

PLUS
Alan Ginsberg read from Howl to the rapt crowd. Meeting him was for me a major highlight.

Everyone let their freak flags fly and tried to recapture the vibe.
With less mud.
I shot with film.

Fast forward to a few years ago, on the 50th Anniversary, Morrison hotel Gallery invited Michael Lang, who was the main face of Woodstock, and had Henry Diltz, and Bob Gruen attend an opening of photos at the gallery.

Also included here are some shots of Baron Wolman, at a LA Gallery.

Plus, a who’s who of Woodstock photographers: Baron, Jim Marshall, Lisa Law, and Henry who all signed a classic photo from the event.

Sold for $20.

Why didn’t I get more as gifts??

We have all seen, and probably used, a ring light.
Basically, this gives you a shadowless light that may be flattering, although EVERYONE has been using this!
If you don’t believe me, have a look at the eye in a screen grab. In what we call a catchlight, you can see the ring light on the eye.
Not saying it’s bad, but maybe it’s time to change up your setup to add a bit more distinction to your content.
Joby has designed a full lighting kit for the smartphone creator with a new attention to detail: a background light.

It’s called the Beamo Deluxe Studio Lighting Kit! 

It’s a mouthful , so I’ll break it down for you. Continue Reading »

Sure, we all look at the latest camera bodies, glass, tripods, lights, bags (oh, the bags!) and more.
When it comes to your final output, what everyone will see, it’s about the tonal quality and color.
All of your post production adjustments are based on what you see on your monitor(s).
A little while back, I reviewed the Datacolor Spyder X colorimeter, and it has served me well.

When I am working on one monitor, that is.

So if that is your case, or if you work only on a laptop, that option is a great call.
However…..
I have begun the work on an upcoming book, and using multiple monitors, I needed to have the color match across them all.

Whether it is the post production on an image, or the layout of the book, having consistent colors across them all was critical.

That’s when I knew that the upgraded DatacolorSpyder X2 Ultra was the unit that would serve the project best.

Sure, they look the same, but the guts and software are the upgrade that was required.
Continue Reading »

My VW bug was chugging its way up Telegraph Ave, like the little engine that could.
And it did!

That afternoon, on Sproul Plaza at UC Berkeley, Talking Heads were doing a free concert.
As a new fan, it was not to be missed.

They did the hits, and in a very strange timing, they sang Psycho killer as we all found out that Mayor George Moscone & Supervisor Harvey Milk were murdered by Dan White, a former supervisor in SF.
Because of this tragedy, Diane Feinstein succeeded Moscone as acting Mayor.

The concert was crowded, and afterward and I found myself backstage. Don’t ask me how.
I ended up capturing this portrait of Tina Weymouth, the bassist.

A couple of years ago, there was a screening in NYC of Stop Making Sense, attended by Tina and her husband Chris Frantz, the drummer for Talking Heads.
I had my advance ticket, so I got a 16×20 print of the portrait to give to her on the night.
Decades later, the story came to a right conclusion.

While at CES 2023, part of the goal is to see what’s coming out new, that could be of use to all of you.
When I saw this Pivo Max, I couldn’t wait to give it a go, and see if it performed as expected.

What you have, basically, is a base that has a bluetooth connection to an app, which allows you to track your movements while shooting. Your camera will move with you.

The thing that brought me to their booth and impressed me the most was the strength of the motor allowing the use of a mirrorless camera.

As a content creator, you know that you need to push out your work in a variety of formats.
The most common being the 9×16 Vertical for social/smartphones, and the 16×9 for platforms like YouTube.
You may have thought that you need to shoot twice, once in each format, or compromise the framing to lean towards one or the other.
The Pivo Max  does indeed have a strong enough motor to allow you to mount both a phone and a mirrorless camera to capture your content at one time.

It worked as expected! When I see products in a trade show, you never know how a production unit will behave. This did not disappoint!

Sure, you may say that anyone can mount both units and get the same.
But the critical difference when using the Pivo Max is the dynamic look when you add motion tracking to the equation.
By connecting via Bluetooth to the app, you can have your cameras track you by face, or body.
Now, if your content includes moving around a gym, in let’s say, a training video, or even a horse riding instructional this set-up will track you easily and make sure your shoot captures your vid.
Of course you can hire someone, to be the camera person.
This setup lets you shoot as a solo creator!
The tracking on this app is so good, it was tough to get a product shot as I moved around to get the right light! It kept following me.
I’m showing a specific set-up getting all content in 2 cameras at once.

The Fuji X-H2 has a flippy screen so I could see the framing on the camera, and then I used the phone in a front facing camera so I could see what was being captured there. Like I said, a one person set-up. We all know that the front and back cameras on a phone have diff resolution, but for social, the quality is good. The Fuji gets the 4K files.

To activate the phone I use the included remote control. The camera was activated on the body, knowing I’d be editing that first part out.

You can just mount your phone, or tablet, horizontal or vertical on the base, or a tablet, and keep it simple. Probably a way most people will use this.

Maybe you just want to live stream, and a less complicated set-up is best.
I would also suggest connecting a good wireless mic system to complete the system.
For this review, I was just shooting video, no audio.

OK, you have a dual capture set-up, a single capture set-up, and there is more.
With a remote control included, you can also control the base via the app, or even without the app!
So, if you want that 180º or 360º shot you can easily do that with the remote. Either direction.
You can also adjust speeds of any of those movements.

I have looked at this category for years, going back to something called a Swivl, which used a large bulky tracker that you wore. Unwieldy at best.

The tech in this may appear simple, and it may be. It just works.
If capturing content, as a solo creator, with the ability to add dynamism to your video with a moving subject, I highly recommend this Pivo Max.

It does all break down pretty small and the phone mount has a ¼-20 standard screw mount as does the base. I just screwed on the camera, and as you see, added a cold shoe adaptor to the phone base to complete my set up. The Max does not come with that, but I’m sure you have one in your kit. If not, a cheap add-on.

I do use a Zhiyun tripod adaptor so the bottom can live on the base, and the top lives on the camera. I didn’t have to remove my fave wrist strap, the SpiderHolster wrist strap, my wrist strap of choice/

This can also be a great tool for real estate sales

With this, an agent can give a virtual tour of a property. I think content creation is where we live, but that is just another use case.

The main base unit is rechargeable, with 10-12 hours of battery life. You can also charge your phone/tablet through the base while you record as well.
the remote uses 2 AAA batteries.

One thing I will say that you should look at your motion and see how how is all tracked.

In a closer , let’s say 6Ft distance, try to do smoother movements as the tracking is so good, it will stop and start moving as you do. No lag, but immediate.

There you have it! from the trade show floor, into a real world situation, the Pivo Max does exactly what it promised. It costs about $250, but I have seen it on sale for as little as $175 USD.

BTW, here is a video for another product on the line, with a motor best suited for a smart, not the full combo. You may want to look at the whole line to see which unit is best for you

(please note, there is a possibly disturbing photo at the end of this post)
I had just seen/photographed St. Vincent perform at Stubbs, and it was an incredible set.

Making my way out, it was on to the next venue to hear some new music.
While walking on the street, the camera’s exposure was set for whatever may be seen on the street.
There was a rope blocking the sidewalk, making us all walk in the street.
All of the sudden we hear a car’s screeching tires, bursting through the flimsy barricade with a police car in hot pursuit.
The camera came up to my eye, with the continuous shooting sequence in action.
The driver plowed through the crowd of these poor young kids, just trying to party and get to the next venue.
The things I saw, are etched in my mind forever, and I’m not sure about posting some of them here.
I know I saw a young woman bleed out, while being attended to by paramedics.
There was a facility close by that had dispatched medical support immediately.
This one shot has stuck in my memory as it reminded me of Kent State.

Continue Reading »

Sitting in a friends living room, it was fascinating to hear the writer talk about interviewing a Manson Family member in max security, in a morbid way.
Then she said the photographer she took with her, totally screwed the assignment.
One camera, dressed a bit off, and was scared witless. Missed most of the possible shots.
She needed to find another photographer.
My buddy suggested me.
After looking at some of my photos she agreed.
I asked her when we would be going, and she said it would just be me, as she had already wrote the interview.
I did as much background as I could, and got notes from the writer.
With an official letter from the publication, a plane ticket, and my camera bags filled with his favorite cigarettes, I took off.
Nothing like hearing the actual door of a prison close behind you to know the truth.
While walking the line, my accompanying guard told me how much he respected my work from Nam.
I had never been to Nam. I said thank you.
Meeting with BB, I started to lay out my gear. There were some other inmates in the room, and I asked them all what they were in for.
The last one said I didn’t want to know.
I agreed, and gave him a smoke.
The guy knew his poses and we started to shoot.

During the process I asked him for his side of the story.
His freedom had been challenged, so he had to kill.
My gear was a Nikon F3, FM, and Nikon F that I always carried. Fully manual, and as the expression goes, I could hammer nails with it all day, and it would still be in focus.
And both of the other cameras did go down.
The final set-ups were done with the F. Whew!
Yes, I had a speedlight, changing bag (used when the cameras went down) and tons of film, B&W, and ektachrome.
There was one shot that I wanted to do, and the guard was a bit concerned.
With the lights out, or very dim, I wanted to spray the scene with a fire extinguisher for atmosphere and hit the scene with a flash. Hell, he had an automatic weapon.
So, we did it.

Throughout the shoot we talked a lot.
“When did you get those tattoos?”” In here” “Really, how?” “Broken guitar string and ink from a pen” “damn, that had to hurt!” “You know how long I’ve been in here? THAT hurts”
As a self-taught musician, we discussed his music, styles, etc.
After the shoot. I met with his therapist who told me he was really a good guy.
I sent him contact sheets, and transparencies, as I had promised.
A short while later, I was at home, and I get a collect call from the prison.
He wanted to chat.

Loved the photos, but unfortunately couldn’t get the slides as they were in plastic mounts and could have been made into a weapon.
How did he get my phone number?
The writer said he really like meeting me, and wanted to let me know he liked the photos.
Yes, I did change my number.
This was perhaps the most exhilarating, single photo shoot I had done.
The magazine came out and it was great to see the full page spreads of the photos.

One of my favorite assignments was covering concerts at the Greek Theater in Berkeley.

Being a young, low on cash, photographer, Nikons NPS Service was always great about loaning me gear to supplement my owned kit.
The greats were there, and honestly, loved to photograph jazz musicians especially as they were the most chill.

I was hanging backstage, cameras slung on my body, with a bag loaded with extras.
Leaning against a wall, having a smoke, and one of the musicians came up to me.
“Say, are those Export A’s?” said Dizzy Gillespie.
“Yes they are” , I stammered back
“That’s my brand! Can I get one?” “Tell you what, if I can photograph you, I’ll give you a pack!”
He happily agreed, and we started to shoot!
Of course there was the classic puffed cheeks with the upward bell, which all went to just joshing around, playing congas and hanging out.
He ended up giving me a calendar from a Chicago jazz club, and some other things.
Most importantly, we had formed a photog subject bond, and through out the next three days, I was able to photograph him on stage, connect from the wings for more personal shots, And catch moments backstage with some of the other mega stars of the world of jazz.
Because I was hanging with Dizzy , it was assumed I was a “right “ guy, and the access was
invaluable getting moments with these other musicians.
Joni Mitchell was also on the bill, playing with Jaco Pastorius, Herbie Hancock, Tony Williams and Don Alias.
The list of talent was incredible, and the archives from that shoot are invaluable.

Remember when I told you that I was not a wealthy guy? Well, I was bulk loading film, and reusing film cassettes to save some dough. There was a roll that had unfortunate scratches, due to debris in the cassette, and through the years I have had those images worked on and ready for printing.
Just a cautionary tale.

I have been using Wacom tablets for many years, and the latest models are a great move forward.

Thinner, sleek design, lighter weight, better button design. Bluetooth has been available, just have to mention.

When you want to get more precise editing on your photographs, a mouse/track pad just won’t get you there.

OK, I know there are those that aren’t quite sure what the advantages are of a Wacom Tablet, or what the heck they even are.

Let’s get down to it before we get into some of the available options.

On a very basic level, a Wacom tablet is a separate work surface that connects via Bluetooth to your computer, and gives you an area to make precise corrections to an image. They come with a pen/stylus that lets you control things on your screen with a pen stroke, or push.
Primarily best in Photoshop, once you get familiar with the advantages, you will use it instead of a mouse/track pad, for pretty much every way you navigate on your computer. No matter what program you are using. This is also invaluable for illustrations. Drawing on a Wacom Tablet is the way to go!
The customizing of your available actions is all in your control.
I’ll get into some ways to customize in a sec.

When I tried to pass on one of my older Wacom Tablets to a fellow photographer, they had a visceral response, saying they were too hard, and complicated.

Doesn’t have to be!

Like all good tech, these have such a robust feature set, that you can set your levels of need, based on your skill level
Once you connect your Wacom tablet to your computer, you can go in and select from a menu of how you want to use it. Here you can see that it appears in your system preferences:

Personally, for the set-up, I keep it super simple:

Adjust the area on the tablet that is “active”: In other words, a 3in square can replicate the entire screen so you don’t need to drag your pen across the whole area. And if you use 2 monitors. you can select the area(s) that the tablet/pen is active.

Customize the buttons on the pen: Pressure is an easy select, and  Undo or Erase are the 2 most popular and used options, you can choose how they work

Set how the buttons on the tablet itself, will give you repeated actions that match your workflow.
Each button can also be selected to open a series of customized actions.

My advice is keep it simple, especially if you are new to this.
Now, some folks may say, ” I can just use my iPad ”
Want to know why that is not a great idea? The latency from the pen action to the tablet is so far superior on the Wacom, that it will cut down your possible frustration from things not happening in real time.

The Wacom stylus does not use a battery, so need to charge!
The Wacom tablet battery lasts for 15hrs so you will always be connected, unless you need those extra hours and can just plug in.

Yes, some of the current AI enabled masking options currently in Adobe software are great, no question, and you may think that these can help you retouch.                                    Sure thing, for global corrections, or major areas (Subject, Sky, Background)
But when you need to go in and really get specific on your post processing, you need the precision of the pen.
And if you are a portrait photographer, a delicate retouch on facial cleanup requires this set-up.
Try adjusting facial lines with a mouse.
Not happening.
What I use, is a simple, adjusted, smaller work area on the tablet (see above), zoom options, undo and erase, and various pressure sensitivities, left and right click, and double click.
On the Pro, where I prefer the medium size, you can add touch commands as well, so you can still get the track pad experience incorporated into your workflow. And more room on your desk!

The bluetooth gives you some freedom and no wires, although the pad is pretty close to my monitor mostly.
I haven’t gotten into the workflow of using your big screen for a couch centric work station.
Honestly, with a calibrated monitor, the Wacom, and a keyboard, my situation is pretty well set.

Now there are a few options to go with:

The Intuos Pro, Medium, my personal choice. This one sells for about $310. USD

It does come with a pen stand that also house a multitude of stylus tip styles for the heavy user.

Or, as a starter set-up, you’ll be happy with the  Intuos, Small, which is available with and without bluetooth. about a $20 USD difference.

Both come with training and software

So either $60 0r $80

Main differences are 4 customizable keys, not 8. The big deal for me was the touch pad. And the pen stand with extra stylus nibs is a great addition as well.

Whether you know the Wacom brand , or were wondering if you should jump in, now would be a good time!

There is one other part of the Wacom line that I love, but have yet to put in much time on.

It’s the Cintiq line, where you are actually working on a monitor as tablet so you can see all of your work right on the image as you are affecting it.

This one starts at about $650, which is waaaaay less than when I first started seeing these.

If you made it this far, I’ll bet you want more info.

 This video, from BH, gives a good overview

This can be a time saver and a new workflow for you, and once you have set it up, you will be sailing!

I work in ad agencies, and every art director I know, uses, loves, and couldn’t live without their Wacom.

Just saying.

If you are a content creator, you know the gear you should have.
Or do you?
As most of the content on TikTok has, primarily, a static camera, and maybe a ringlight, hopefully some audio that is more than a headset mic, you may want to stand out a little bit more.
When I shoot an interview, for instance, I will use a 2-3 camera set-up, with one of the cams, on a slider.
What that does is add a bit of motion, even slightly, that gives you something to cut to or from, that adds visual interest to your production. In those instances I use the Edelkrone system on large tripods for stability, within the movement, and for the weight of the cameras.
If you are doing a smartphone bit of content, you kit is way smaller, and you may still want the extra visual boost of a moving camera. Chances are you will only use it as a “B” roll, or product insert shot.
Enter the Joby Swing Slider!
I’ve had a chance to work with this a bit and wanted to share a way I use it, although a bit different than the usual side to side.
How about in and out?

Now the goal is to have some elements for the camera to go past in this usage, so you have a true sense of depth. I had a camera, a Rubiks cube as you can see, with a Joby tripod supporting a business card, and added a puzzle ball behind, to complete the depth.

You can do the horizontal slider action, as well, but I wanted to show you another way to do it.

In addition, the slider connects to an app, and the connection is very fast.
You get to choose speed of the move and use the touch screen on the smart phone to set your start and stop points.

Plus you can do time lapses with the app!
I do love a good time lapse, and as I usually connect a camera to a power source, so as not to lose the shot, I have not yet tested this for long time lapses, and have just used the battery life on the unit. Since you don’t use those shots a ton, it ain’t Koyaanisqatsi,

And unless you are doing a ton of shots with the slider, the built in battery works just fine!

The unit also has a level so you can be sure to get your horizon line as you like them.

Have a look at this instructional video, so you can get an idea of its set-up:

Overall, I really like this unit. Also, feel that a heavier base camera stand may yield better results.
As you can guess, I only had the slider, and used other bits to put together the sample. I did use a heavier base camera stand for the video, by Edelkrone.

Yes, easy to do your vertical content, so no worries there!
One other thing to note is that the buttons on the iPhone may get pressed by you phone holder, but I’m sure you have experienced that before.
I mention it because the balance may be affected by how the phone is mounted, primarily in the horizontal format, depending how long you are having the slider travel.

So there you have it! About $140, for the whole kit.

Big day of news over at Fuji, and we’re here for it!

Let’s start with the latest camera.

Now that everyone is vlogging (aren’t you?) the industry has come to answer your need!

The new Fuji X-S20, added in addition to the X-S10 has arrived with a ton of new features to make your vlogging heart skip a beat!

Thought I was over promising?
How about a Vlogging function on the PSAM dial!

One thing that influencers have always complained about is when they are talking about a product, and then hold it to camera, the time lag to refocus has been an issue.
This new camera is supposed to solve that lag issue.

From a larger battery for longer shooting time ( same as X-T4, X-T5 and H2, H2s),

to improved AF subject detect,

you may want to consider this as a dedicated influencer camera.

The 3.5mm mic and headphone jacks are on opposite sides of the camera, so may make your cable management easier.

the HDMI is the mini version.

the S10 is still in the line-up and at about $300 less, it may still serve your needs. But…..Get future proofed!

My only complaint is the single media card slot. But you can’t get everything!

That wasn’t all that was announced.

How about an improved Fuji app?

What’s that you say? About time? Yep, we agree, although I’m a big fan of the wireless firmware updates currently available.

They have added a history function so you can see just what you uploaded, film simulation. etc.

You still can’t upload a RAW or RAF file so be committed to your jpegs.

One of my main uses is when I do a pixel shift image, or remote control of the camera, and should be as good, or improved

And you did see the new wide angle 8mm lens on the S20 above.

The samples sent looked like there were no distortion issues, although I haven’t had a chance to shoot with it.

And for those of you out there with an X-H2, H2s, or X-T5, you get some updates as well:

Whew!

OK, there you have it!

Lots to go over.

Is this the camera for you?

I would say, as mentioned, that this could be a dedicated influencer/livestream/creator camera, with a ton of dedicated features for those operations.

You know, whenever I go to trade shows, there is usually a trend in new products that can be spotted.
This year at CES, it was no different as manufacturers saw a need, and rushed to fill it.
Now as we all have been trained in the past 3-4 years to live on zoom calls, and while doing that, you may also need to communicate with your team/client via txt, slack, etc.
What we needed was a way to keep our phones at hand, and maybe needing to charge them while using that all, important second screen.

The most elegant, clean design I saw at CES was the offering from Rolling Square.
Called the Edge Pro system, this modular setup will serve you well, allowing you to attache your phone, and other essentials in a very slim design.
Not only slim, but a very clean design. All designed in Switzerland.                                                                                                       (Below are a combo of a video from the company, and actual photos by me of the product in use.)

take a look at this overview:

All in metal, the Edge Pro system is designed with a series of magnets, embedded within the separate units, and then you adhere these pieces to the back of your laptop, or computer case (which I did), and then add on the proper phone holder, or an adjustable light, or a phone charger. So you are adhering the silicon covered metal disks, and then the mag holders attach where you want them.

The magnets are a strong hold, and, as we are all about the magsafe phones or cases, you’re all good holding your phone. I was using it with an iPhone 14Pro

And they didn’t stop there.
With this system, you can also move it to an iPad, giving you that second screen. you can see that in the video above.

But wait, there’s more!
In the set you also get a round light that adjusts intensity and color balance!
Not the basic rectangular light, but that round beauty light make you look the best, in my humble opinion.

All about the catchlight in the eyes, right?
The light has a 5hr charged life and can adjust color temp, and intensity.
Here is the basic set-up that is an EDC (every day carry)

This is how it looks with just the magnet holders on the laptop case:

And here it is with the holders in place, from the back: (phone mag holder can be rotated & straightened.)

How thin is this? In other words when you put it into your bag, how much will it stick out? Barely at all. And you can always just take the mag connectors off, when traveling. Here it is with connectors folded and ready, and also with out connectors on.

And of course, you also get the magsafe phone charger that fits perfectly in the mag holder.
OR, just add another piece and you have a strong, simple hands free, phone holder.

For best results get 2 core pieces, in my opinion.

Or it works with one as well:

Sure, you will need a hub to connect your light and the charger to, let’s say, a MacBook Air at one time.
I use an EZquest hub for that, with multiple USB-C inputs.

As I mentioned, form and function. The clean design of this system drew me in at CES. And now that I have a sample, it’s better than that.
As we all may be moving to hybrid work and you need to travel your laptop, the connector, or home base as I call it. Folds in so slim, that it is barely noticeable, as you can see above.

I do wish there was a case that held all of the pieces, but I have pockets in all of my backpacks that do the job.

BONUS: As a run and gun photographer, who has to post fast, we all used to velcro a card reader to the top of a laptop.

Now you can use a ProGrade card reader , which has a metal plate in it, and have it held in place with one of the mag connectors.

I don’t want to come off as a complete fanboy, but when something is well designed, I want you all to know about it.

There is another line of products cables that they design, called Incharge-x. You see that in the above photo all folded up for travel?
So why are they good, well designed, and super useful?
Along with a rugged casing on the cable, each end has a sleek, all plug design so you are never without the right cable!
Check this out:

And you can go for the mini, seen above, which is always in my kit, all the way up to a longer version. They have from 1ft to 10ft  long, which stores in a silicon case.

BTW, the mini USB on the lightning output is hidden within the plug.  Genius!

In the case you also get hanger for stashing the cable near your computer. Or where ever you need to use it. Also mag, so the plug area will also just stick.

I write about these items, because they are the often overlooked, but much needed items.

When you show up at a job, or an office you want to look like you have the best usable, best looking kit, no matter what you are doing.
I do, anyway.

The Rolling Square line-up has a sleek design, and smart thinking behind it.

The expression goes, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression.

Tis the season!

Yes, you will see alot of notable speakers at graduations this season, and for the world of photography, Lynsey Addario delivered one of the finest to the graduating class of the School Of Visual Arts, 2023.
I would suggest reading it in it’s entirety because there are great lessons in there.
It doesn’t matter if you are a graduate, a photo journalist, or someone who can appreciate the life lessons of a worldly correspondent

Here it is in almost it’s entirety:

Usually, when I’m invited to address an audience, it is to speak about my experiences as a war photographer. Which is not surprising since I’ve spent the last twenty-five years covering conflict around the world, and most recently, Ukraine where I returned two weeks ago.
Today, you sit where I once did. You’ve likely spent the last few years thinking about the work you want to create, and the impact you want to make with your art.
Continue Reading »

After seeing the Panasonic LUMIX 5SII at CES, finally had a chance to actually put it to a real world review.
Often touted as the best solution to mirrorless video capture, I also wanted to see how it performed as a still camera making it a solid hybrid choice.
Sure, I’ll be laying out some of the specs, which you should go through if deciding on a purchase, and these are the first impressions:
Below is the full framee Lumix 5SII and the Lumix 5SIIx. More on the differences later.

First of all, this camera has a great ergonomics and very solid build, so felt just right in the hands, from the get-go.

The deep grip on the right hand side, gave a sense of security in holding the camera at the ready. The placement of the primary dials and controls are in just the right proximity for adjustments.

Glad they do not have the lugs with a hole for connecting a strap, so my SpiderPro wrist strap attached perfectly! I’ve tried so many of these, and I swear by the SpiderPro.
If you are familiar with a PSAM dial for exposures, you will feel right at home.

On a still photography walkabout, AF was primo, and coupled with the IBIS, street photography was a breeze.

Honestly, it locked in on selected faces in a crowded street fair,
The phase detect AF was spot on, and let me relax as the crowd milled about to get the right shot.

With a hybrid phase-detect AF (PDAF), the focus didn’t “breath” and locked on.
The 20-60 lens was tack sharp as well,