đ¸ The Magazine For Photographers
Welcome to a BRAND NEW Magazine Issue, lots of exciting news in the photography world ;)
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In this weekâs Issue:
Turn your Camera into a sniper
Get Featured in this magazine for FREE!
Print your Images at home
Interview with Steve Hamm
Sigmas all in one lens?
Luminar Neoâs new Update
Photography Tip of the Week
Photographer of the Week
An SSD Enclosure for iPhone Filmmakers
Everyone can now become a Premium Subscriber!
TTArtisanâs Pop-Up Red Dot Sight Turns Your Camera into a Sniper
TTArtisan just released a cool new gadget for wildlife photographers: a dot sight that sits on your cameraâs hot shoe. Itâs a small, lightweight device with both red and green dot options, designed to help you track and frame far-off, moving subjects more easilyâperfect for wildlife photography.
If youâve ever tried shooting fast-moving animals with a long lens, you know how hard it can be to keep them in the frame. Sure, modern mirrorless cameras have killer autofocus, but dot sightsâwhile old schoolâstill offer a super simple way to aim your camera quickly. Back in 2012, wildlife photographer Chris Malcolm stuck one on his 500mm lens and found it made aiming at distant subjects ridiculously easy.
This isnât the first time weâve seen a dot sight aimed at wildlife photographers. OM System (formerly Olympus) introduced the EE-1 sight in 2015, and Kenko Tokina followed with their SZ Super Tele Finder in 2022. TTArtisanâs new version follows that same path, making it easier to track fast-moving animals without needing to keep an eye glued to your viewfinder or LCD screen.
To get the most out of the TTArtisan Dot Sight, though, you need to calibrate it for your specific camera and lens combo. The process is simple: just line up a subject using your cameraâs EVF or LCD, then tweak the dot sight until itâs perfectly aligned. TTArtisan even has easy-to-follow instructions on their website.
This sight has five brightness levels, and you can switch between red and green dots with a quick button press. Itâs powered by a 3V CR2032 button battery thatâll last about 100 hours on medium brightness. The pop-up function is controlled by a switch on the back, and it locks into place on your cameraâs hot shoe with no fuss.
At just 73 grams and priced at $53, the TTArtisan Dot Sight is an affordable, handy tool for anyone looking to make wildlife tracking a bit easier. And honestly at this price point you might just want to pick it up and try it out for the fun of it.
Image Credits: TTArtisan
Get your Photos featured in this Magazine for Free
I am currently testing a new feature, where everyone can get a completely free chance to be featured in my magazine and get seen by thousands of fellow photography enthusiasts.
How it works: Every Week there will be either a Newsletter to subscribe to or an Advertisement. Everyone who clicks gets a chance to be selected, I will randomly select one or two ââwinnersââ and their photos/Instagram/website/portfolio will be published here in this magazine completely for free.
So do not hesitate make sure to take this chance on getting featured in the next issue next Sunday. (winner/winners will be notified by email)
Advertisement (be sure to check it out) âŹď¸
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Print your Images at Home - Canon PRO-1100 17-Inch Printer
Canon is shaking up the professional printing game with its newly launched imagePROGRAF PRO-1100, a 17-inch printer designed for producing high-quality prints at home or in a studio. It delivers richer, more vibrant colors with deeper blacks and smoother gradients.
The PRO-1100 brings several key upgrades. One major improvement is the enhanced longevity of prints. Canon claims that, when paired with archival-quality media, prints can last up to 200 yearsâa big jump from the 60-year lifespan offered by the PRO-1000, the predecessor. These new inks also offer greater protection against scratches and abrasions, making prints more durable.
The PRO-1100 also takes media versatility to another level. It supports a wide range of paper sizes, including some that werenât compatible with the PRO-1000, such as 7 x 10, 9 x 13, and 12 x 12 inches. The new printer can handle large borderless prints up to 17 x 25 inches, and for those looking to create long prints, it now supports roll printing, capable of producing prints almost 11 feet longâfar surpassing the PRO-1000âs 3.9-foot limit.
Additional features include Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, a 3-inch LCD display for easy control, and Canonâs dedicated Professional Print and Layout software to ensure top-notch results.
Even with all the added features and improvements, the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 retains the same $1,299.99 price tag that the PRO-1000 had when it launched back in 2015, making it a strong contender for those looking to upgrade their printing setup.
Interview with Steve Hamm
This weeks interview is with the amazing Photographer Stephen Hamm.
He is another Landscape photographer, who travels across America to capture stunning images.
You can find him on instagram as @stephenhammphotography
Enjoy this truly amazing interview.
Can you introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Steve Hamm, and Iâm a Colorado-based landscape photographer. Photography has been a big part of my life for six years now. I teach workshops, sell prints, and am passionate about capturing the beauty of nature. Besides photography, Iâm a husband, father, and grandfather to four amazing kids and one grandbaby. I work full-time as an executive chef at Denver International Airport.
What initially drew you to nature and landscape photography?
I've always had a deep love for being in nature, which stems from my childhood when my family and I often went hiking together. My father and I bonded over these outdoor adventures, which became a significant part of my life. As I got older and found myself working long hoursâ50-55 hours a week as an executive chef at a restaurant in Denver International AirportâI realized I needed an outlet to decompress and recharge. My job involves serving over 2,000 people a day, and while I love what I do, the stress can be overwhelming.
I picked up a camera to reconnect with the peace I found in nature. Photography quickly became a passion. It allowed me to capture the beauty and tranquility I experienced on my hikes. What started as a way to relax and unwind soon became an obsession. I dedicated all my free time to learning the art of photography and challenging myself in different environments and situations. I began traveling as much as possible, driven by a desire to see and capture the worldâs beauty through my lens.
When Iâm out shooting, nothing else matters. Composing a shot, waiting for the perfect light, and being present in the moment brings me a sense of peace thatâs hard to find elsewhere. Photography has become my way of slowing down and clearing my headâa way to be in total harmony with the world around me.
How do you approach planning for a shoot in the wild? Do you rely more on spontaneity or preparation?
Honestly, I donât plan much at all, though I probably should. I find that just packing up and heading out, especially after a stressful week, is what I need most. The spontaneity of itâjust being in nature without an agendaâis what I love. Iâm not always chasing the âperfectâ conditions; Iâm more focused on the experience of being out there. That said, I realize that with a bit more preparation, I could capture more dramatic images, but for me, the peace and calm of nature are the priorities. The photos are a bonus.
Can you walk us through your creative process when youâre in the field? How do you decide on the perfect moment to capture?
When I arrive at a location, I like to take a moment to catch my breath and take in the surroundings. Iâll walk around and explore, looking for interesting elements to use as a foreground. If there are mountains, Iâll find the best angle to capture them, or if Iâm near water, Iâll get low to frame the shot with the waterfall or river.
I donât usually set up my tripod right away. Instead, I take handheld test shots to see how the light interacts with the landscape. I observe how the light changes, especially around golden hour and into blue hour, which are my favorite times to shoot. I try to maximize my time by exploring different compositions in a single location rather than focusing on just one shot.
The key is to stay aware of whatâs happening around me. Light can change quickly, and being ready to adapt can lead to some of the best images. By keeping my options open and not getting too fixated on a single composition, I often walk away with various shots that tell a more complete story of the location.
What challenges do you often face when photographing in remote or difficult environments, and how do you overcome them?
As a type 1 diabetic, managing my blood sugar is a significant challenge, especially when Iâm hiking in remote areas without cell service, often at higher elevations. To mitigate this, I use an insulin pump and a glucose monitoring system that updates my pump every five minutes. It alerts me to potential issues before they become serious. I always carry snacks and a Gatorade mix to stabilize my sugar levels throughout the hike, along with glucagon in an emergency.
Another challenge Iâve faced is forgetting to charge my camera batteries, which has happened a few times. To avoid this, I now carry multiple batteries in my bag, ensuring Iâm always prepared for a long shoot.
How important is social media for photographers?
Social media can be a double-edged sword. Itâs a powerful tool for getting your work out there and connecting with other photographers, but it can also be overwhelming. If you want to grow on social media, it requires constant effortâposting daily with engaging content and following trends. I use social media primarily to share my work and research new locations. Iâve made lasting friendships and discovered incredible places to shoot through social media, but it all depends on your individual goals.
How do you handle unpredictable weather or lighting conditions that can drastically change the scene you intend to photograph?
I embrace it. Unpredictable weather often leads to the most amazing shots. Patience is keyâIâll wait for the right moment, knowing that a small break in the clouds or a shift in the light can create something magical. Not every attempt works out, but when it does, the results are often stunning. Iâve learned to appreciate nature's unpredictability and use it to my advantage.
What role does patience play in your work, and how do you stay motivated when conditions arenât ideal for capturing the image you envision?
Patience is crucial in landscape photography. Sometimes, the conditions arenât ideal, and it can be challenging to stay motivated, especially when youâre cold or standing in the rain. I keep moving, exploring different compositions and capturing moody images even when the light isnât great. Waiting for that perfect momentâwhen the clouds part, or the light shiftsâcan transform an image. Itâs those small windows of opportunity that make all the waiting worthwhile.
Any tips for beginners?
The biggest tip I can give to beginners is to practice. The old saying, âPractice makes perfect,â couldnât be more true in photography. With practice, youâll develop your style, learn what you love to shoot, and improve your editing skills. I still practice constantlyârevisiting locations, trying new techniques, and experimenting with different angles. Growth as a photographer comes from continuously challenging yourself and refining your craft.
What do you think about AI in photography?
I see AI as a useful tool, but not something to be feared. Like any new technology, itâs met with skepticism because people are unsure of it. For me, photography is about disconnecting from the world and finding peace in nature, something AI canât replicate. I shoot to experience the outdoors, and AI doesnât change that. What concerns me about AI is when itâs used to create images that donât reflect reality, leading people to believe in something that doesnât exist. My work has been accused of being AI-generated, but I assure you itâs all real.
What gear do you use?
Iâm a Sony shooter and have been for a long time. I use two camera bodies, the A7Riii and A7Riv, along with a range of zoom lenses: a 12-24mm f/2.8 GM, a 16-35mm f/4, a 50mm, and a 70-350mm. I typically shoot wide and do a lot of compositing. Additionally, I have a Mini 3 Pro drone and an iOptron Sky Tracker Pro.
What are some qualities a photographer should have?
A good photographer should possess determination, patience, thick skin, and a genuine passion for what they shoot. Itâs essential to love what you do and be patient while waiting for the right conditions. Everyone will have opinions on how things should be done, but you must stay true to your vision and process.
How do you choose the locations you shoot?
The rest, 7 more questions, of this Interview are for Premium subscribers only.
Sigmaâs 28-105mm f/2.8 Art - the One for All?
Sigmaâs just dropped a new lens: the 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art, and itâs got some cool features for Sony E and Leica L mounts. This lens packs the fast f/2.8 aperture of the 24-70mm f/2.8 but with a bit more zoom range, hitting 105mm at the long end. Itâs not as wide as the 24-105mm f/4, but it keeps the bright aperture throughout.
Size and Build:
Itâs 87.8 x 157.9mm (3.5 x 6.2 inches) and weighs about 995 grams (under two pounds), so itâs pretty manageable for its range.
Sigmaâs used magnesium near the mount instead of aluminum, making it sturdier and lighterâabout two-thirds lighter in those parts.
Optics:
The lens has 18 elements in 13 groups, including two special FLD elements to cut down on color fringing, five aspherical elements to keep it compact, and one SLD element for sharpness.
It has a 12-blade aperture that goes from f/2.8 to f/22, which helps in creating smooth background blur and managing depth of field.
Performance:
It keeps a constant f/2.8 aperture across all zoom levels and minimizes focus breathing, so your framing stays consistent when focusing.
Sigma claims the lens handles flare and ghosting really well, thanks to its special coatings, making for high-contrast images even in tricky lighting.
Focus and Close-ups:
The lens focuses as close as 15.8 inches (40cm) at any focal length and offers a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1 at 105mm, which is pretty handy for close-ups.
Itâs got Sigmaâs HLA motor for fast and quiet autofocus, which is great for both stills and video.
Extras:
There are two customizable AFL buttons and an aperture ring that can be clicked or de-clicked depending on whether youâre shooting photos or video.
It comes with a petal-shaped hood that locks in place to keep it secure and is weather-resistant, so it can handle some rough conditions.
Price and Release:
This lens will cost $1,499 and should be available by late September 2024.
Overall, the Sigma 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art is a versatile lens with a fast aperture and a decent zoom range, making it a solid choice for a variety of shooting situations.
A few sample images by Sigma:
Luminar Neoâs new Update
Skylum is rolling out a major update for its Luminar Neo photo editing software this fall, bringing a host of new features and AI-powered improvements based on user feedback. Hereâs a rundown of whatâs coming:
New Features:
AI Color Transfer: This tool lets you pick a color palette from one image and apply it to another. Adjust the colors and their intensity with sliders to match similar elements like skies or landscapes.
Color Masking: Create precise masks based on specific colors using an eye dropper tool. Adjust the color range to target specific areas of your image for more detailed edits.
Smart Search and Catalog Enhancements:
Smart Search: The improved search function uses machine learning to find images based on content, such as objects or people, rather than just filenames or dates.
Catalog Improvements: You can now filter your catalog by attributes like camera model, focal length, and ISO. Other updates include better EXIF data display and an organized view of your photos.
New Sorting and Filmstrip Features:
Folder and Album Sorting: A new feature allows you to sort your image folders and albums by various attributes, making it easier to manage large photo collections and find specific albums.
Filmstrip in Edit Tab: A Filmstrip added to the Edit Tab lets you switch between images quickly without leaving catalog mode. This improvement streamlines the editing workflow and enhances productivity by allowing for easy synchronization across images in the same folder.
UI and Usability:
The update also brings a more intuitive interface with contoured grid views, updated icons, and better handling of âFile not Foundâ errors for a smoother user experience.
The new features will be available for free to all Luminar Neo customers in October, with a public beta starting at the end of September. Lifetime purchasers will get access to these updates and the Filmstrip in Edit Mode. To access all Fall Update features, along with future upgrades and additional tools, users can purchase the Upgrade Pass 2024/25. Those who buy their licenses between July 1 and August 15, 2024, will receive the pass at no extra charge.
Photography Tip of the Week
The weekly photography tip is only accessible to Premium Subscribers of The Magazine For Photographers.
Photographer of the Week
Photographer of the week goes to: Luis Cervantesco
Congratulations on your luck:)
You can find him on Instagram as @luiscervantescoco
A few photos of his:
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An SSD Enclosure for iPhone Filmmakers
Dockcase just announced a new MagSafe SSD enclosure for $79.99, specifically designed for iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users, especially those who shoot a lot of video. The enclosure magnetically attaches to the back of the phone and provides extra storage through a USB connection, making it a handy option for filmmakers and content creators who need more space to capture high-quality footage.
The Dockcase Smart MagSafe M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure supports 2230 and 2242 M.2 NVMe SSDs, with up to 2TB of storage. It boasts fast 10Gbps transfer speeds with USB 3.2 support, making it great for quickly transferring large video files and other data. One of the cool features of this enclosure is its display screen, which gives you real-time information on SSD performance, health, and transfer status. Itâs also equipped with power-loss protection to prevent data corruption in case of an unexpected power outage, and a read-only mode that keeps your files safe from accidental changes or deletion until youâre ready to back them up.
At just 59.3mm by 14.5mm and 53 grams (excluding the SSD), itâs super lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for on-the-go storage. Plus, itâs designed to handle 4K 60Hz ProRes video recording for up to 150 minutes, making it ideal for iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users. The enclosure features two USB-C portsâone for data transfer at 10Gbps and 90W passthrough charging, and another for power input with 100W PD 3.0 support.
Compatible with a variety of systems including Windows, macOS, iPadOS, Linux, ChromeOS, and even PlayStation 5, this SSD enclosure is a versatile option for creatives who need fast, reliable storage across multiple devices.
Dockcaseâs MagSafe SSD enclosure will retail for $79.99 (without the SSD) and is expected to launch on Kickstarter soon.