photographer’s Blog
Boosting localised lighting with an LED torch
Some situations benefit from a little more light, not in general illuminate everything way like a flash gun does, but in a more specific 'highlight that beetle' sort of way. A cheap and effective way is to use a modern LED torch/flashlight. In the past this wasn't...
Not got your bean bag with you?
Beanbags have become a valuable tool for photographers, acting as a simple, but useful, alternative to a tripod . Beanbags are easily molded to a surface and provide a good support for the camera when perched on walls, the ground, or uneven / rough surfaces. ...
Secure the focus ring so it can’t drift.
There are some situations where you focus manually, but don't take the shot straight away. Such situations tend to come about because your subject moves quickly and you won't have time to focus and still get the shot.Wildlife and nature shots are classic examples...
Improvised graduated neutral density filter
A graduated neutral density filter (GND) is a piece of glass that is darker at one end than at the other, as the 'graduated' bit in its name suggests. Its main use is to balance out the brightness of a scene when part is well-lit and another part is less well...
Flash is too bright and harsh? Use toilet paper!
There can be times when, even with your flash set to its lowest power setting, the result is still a little too harsh or bright. Typically the image shows burnt-out areas or hard shadows, neither of which are very flattering for portrait work, and may not be desirable...