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In this week’s 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 Neo’s new Update

• Photography Tip of the Week

• Photographer of the Week

• An SSD Enclosure for iPhone Filmmakers

• DJI’s First Actual Budget Drone

• Nikons mini Vending machine Cameras

• Donate to keep me going

TTArtisan’s 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 camera’s hot shoe. It’s a small, lightweight device with both red and green dot options, designed to help you track and frame far-off, moving subjects more easily—perfect for wildlife photography.

If you’ve 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 sights—while old school—still 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 isn’t the first time we’ve 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. TTArtisan’s 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 camera’s EVF or LCD, then tweak the dot sight until it’s 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. It’s powered by a 3V CR2032 button battery that’ll 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 camera’s 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 ‘‘winners’’ 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)

Newsletter (be sure to check it out) ⬇️

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 years—a 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 weren’t 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 long—far surpassing the PRO-1000’s 3.9-foot limit.

Additional features include Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, a 3-inch LCD display for easy control, and Canon’s 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

Full Interview only for Premium Subscribers (You)

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 I’m 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, I’m 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 hours—50-55 hours a week as an executive chef at a restaurant in Denver International Airport—I 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 world’s beauty through my lens.

When I’m 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 that’s hard to find elsewhere. Photography has become my way of slowing down and clearing my head—a 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 don’t 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 it—just being in nature without an agenda—is what I love. I’m not always chasing the “perfect” conditions; I’m 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 you’re 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. I’ll walk around and explore, looking for interesting elements to use as a foreground. If there are mountains, I’ll find the best angle to capture them, or if I’m near water, I’ll get low to frame the shot with the waterfall or river.

I don’t 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 what’s 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 I’m 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 I’ve 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 I’m always prepared for a long shoot.

Can you share a memorable experience or adventure you’ve had while shooting in a particularly stunning or unique location?

One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had was during a trip to Death Valley. It’s an incredible place, and one of my favorites to explore and photograph. I made the trip after hearing about the return of Lake Manly—a rare occurrence when the rains of 2023 caused Badwater Basin to flood, covering the salt flats with a few inches of water. The entire basin looked like a giant mirror, perfect for capturing reflections.

As I stood in the water watching the sunset, the clouds began to form these incredible shapes, and as the sun dipped behind the mountains, the sky lit up in brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows. The water reflections created a scene resembling a phoenix rising—a truly once-in-a-lifetime moment. The colors transitioned to blues, magentas, and purples, and just when I thought the show was over, the sky exploded again in an afterburn, allowing me to shoot for another 40 minutes. I stood there in awe, completely immersed in the experience. Moments like these make all the challenges and long hours worth it.

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 key—I’ll 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. I’ve 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 aren’t ideal for capturing the image you envision?

Patience is crucial in landscape photography. Sometimes, the conditions aren’t ideal, and it can be challenging to stay motivated, especially when you’re cold or standing in the rain. I keep moving, exploring different compositions and capturing moody images even when the light isn’t great. Waiting for that perfect moment—when the clouds part, or the light shifts—can transform an image. It’s 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, “Practice makes perfect,” couldn’t be more true in photography. With practice, you’ll develop your style, learn what you love to shoot, and improve your editing skills. I still practice constantly—revisiting 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, it’s 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 can’t replicate. I shoot to experience the outdoors, and AI doesn’t change that. What concerns me about AI is when it’s used to create images that don’t reflect reality, leading people to believe in something that doesn’t exist. My work has been accused of being AI-generated, but I assure you it’s all real.

How do you choose the locations you shoot?

I draw inspiration from other photographers, friends, and my own research. I use platforms like Instagram, Google Earth, and AllTrails to discover new spots. I’m willing to drive long distances—sometimes over six hours—to reach a location because I thrive on the excitement of exploring new areas. Familiar locations can become monotonous, so traveling keeps me motivated and inspired.

What gear do you use?

I’m 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 is your all-time favorite photo location?

Death Valley is hands down my favorite place to shoot. The desolation and beauty of the landscape are captivating. The rich colors during golden and blue hour, the textures, and the unique shapes make it a photographer’s paradise. The wildflowers that bloom in such an arid environment are stunning, and the night skies are some of the darkest and most breathtaking I’ve ever seen.

I also love the San Juan Mountains. In the summer, I love driving old mountain passes that old miners used to use. The towering peaks stand tall, with gorgeous basins at the base full of wildflowers. The crystal-clear lakes mirror glass. And the rich mining history is everywhere. The fall brings even more beauty.  The mountains explode in yellow and orange colors.  And if you're lucky, a snowstorm will cover the landscape in a clash of the seasons.  

What editing software do you use?

I use Helicon Focus for focus stacking, Lightroom, and Photoshop for most of my editing work.

What role does composition play in your images?

Composition is everything. It’s what makes an image compelling and draws the viewer’s eye to specific elements of the photograph. I use light to create atmosphere and drama, often shooting during blue hour to illuminate my scene naturally. I pay close attention to foreground elements to create depth, using shadows, highlights, and color to evoke the desired mood in my images.

How important is light in photography?

Light is critical in photography. It adds depth, creates mood, and directs the viewer’s eye to the subject. Without good lighting, an image can look flat. By manipulating light, whether through natural conditions or post-processing techniques, I can create a more dynamic and engaging photograph.

How did you find your signature style?

My style emerged from years of practice and experimentation in the field and editing. I spent countless hours shooting, learning, making mistakes, and refining my approach. I’m drawn to an ethereal feel in my images, which I’ve developed over time. By studying other photographers and analyzing my work, I’ve honed my style to the point where I spend less time fumbling in the field and more time capturing the shots I envision.

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. It’s 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.

Is it just a hobby for you, or do you pursue it professionally?

Photography is more than a hobby for me—it’s a passion. I’ve taught workshops, both privately and in groups, and I sell prints. However, I don’t rely on it as my primary source of income. I enjoy teaching and helping others achieve their goals, but for now, I’m content with where I am.

How important is social media for photographers?

Social media can be a double-edged sword. It’s 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 effort—posting daily with engaging content and following trends. I use social media primarily to share my work and research new locations. I’ve made lasting friendships and discovered incredible places to shoot through social media, but it all depends on your individual goals.

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Sigma’s 28-105mm f/2.8 Art - the One for All?

Sigma’s just dropped a new lens: the 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art, and it’s 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. It’s not as wide as the 24-105mm f/4, but it keeps the bright aperture throughout.

Size and Build:

It’s 87.8 x 157.9mm (3.5 x 6.2 inches) and weighs about 995 grams (under two pounds), so it’s pretty manageable for its range.

Sigma’s used magnesium near the mount instead of aluminum, making it sturdier and lighter—about 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.

It’s got Sigma’s 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 you’re 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:

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I am a student, creating those magazine issues every week completely by myself for you for free. Please consider making a little donation to keep me and my magazine going. Your help is greatly appreciated. (there is also a few benefits for the people who donate ;))

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Luminar Neo’s 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. Here’s a rundown of what’s 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 “File not Found” 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.

You can check out Lumiar Neo here

Photography Tip of the Week

Accessible only to Premium Subscribers (You)

The Brenizer Method: Getting That Crazy Shallow Depth of Field in Wide Shots

If you’re looking to capture wide scenes but still want that dreamy, blurred background (bokeh) you get from a portrait lens, try the Brenizer Method. It’s a cool technique where you stitch multiple photos together to create a super wide-angle shot with an ultra-shallow depth of field—something you just can’t do with one photo alone.

When to Use It:

• Portraits: You want your subject to stand out with a soft, blurry background but still capture a lot of the scene around them.

• Weddings/Events: Perfect for capturing that "big moment" feel while keeping your couple or subject sharp and the background artistically blurred.

• Environmental Portraits: Great for creating cinematic shots where both the subject and the setting play a key role.

How It Works:

1. Pick a Portrait Lens:

   Use a fast lens like an 85mm or 50mm with a wide aperture (like f/1.4 or f/1.8). This gives you that smooth, shallow depth of field.

2. Shoot in Pieces:

   With your subject in the middle, take a bunch of overlapping shots around them (usually around 20-40 photos). Make sure you overlap each shot by about 30-50% so everything stitches together nicely later. It’s best to use manual focus to keep your subject sharp in every shot.

3. Stitch the Photos Together:

   After shooting, load the photos into something like Lightroom or Photoshop. Use the panorama tool to stitch them into one wide, beautiful shot.

   You’ll probably need to crop the edges a bit, but the final image will have that wide-angle look with the soft, blurred background we all love.

4. Fine-Tune the Image:

   Once your panorama is stitched, make your final tweaks to color, contrast, and sharpness. It’s important to lock in your settings when shooting to make editing easier.

Pro Tip:

Shoot at your widest aperture (f/1.4 or f/1.8) to get the most out of that shallow depth of field. And lock your exposure settings so everything stays consistent across the shots.

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:

Don’t forget to check out the advertisement ⬇️

An SSD Enclosure for iPhone Filmmakers

This Article is only available to Premium Subscribers (You)

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. It’s 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 you’re ready to back them up.

At just 59.3mm by 14.5mm and 53 grams (excluding the SSD), it’s super lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for on-the-go storage. Plus, it’s 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 ports—one 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.

Dockcase’s MagSafe SSD enclosure will retail for $79.99 (without the SSD) and is expected to launch on Kickstarter soon.

DJI’s first ACTUAL Budget Drone

This Article is only available to Premium Subscribers (You)

DJI has just dropped a new selfie drone, the DJI Neo, aimed squarely at entry-level users. It’s tiny, super light at only 135 grams (so no registration needed in the U.S.), and costs $199.

The Neo is built for people who want dynamic aerial shots without the hassle of a big, complicated drone. It takes off and lands right on your palm and uses AI to track and keep you in frame—perfect for content creators or adventurers. DJI’s packed it with their signature QuickShots, including fun flying modes like Helix, Circle, and Boomerang for some dramatic shots.

You can control it through a smartphone app with virtual joysticks or even by voice, making it very user-friendly. The app also lets you wirelessly transfer footage to your phone, so sharing is quick and easy. And while the Neo doesn’t support vertical video yet (odd for something targeting social media), it works with DJI’s Mic 2 for better audio and comes with editing tools and effects.

On the camera front, the Neo has a 12-megapixel sensor and shoots 4K video at up to 30 fps. It has a built-in f/2.8 lens with a 117.6-degree field of view, equivalent to a 14mm lens on a full-frame camera. Stabilization-wise, it combines a single-axis mechanical gimbal with DJI’s digital stabilization to keep things steady, even in windy conditions.

Battery life is decent for its size, offering about 18 minutes of flight time (or 17 if you’re using the propeller guards). It can handle return-to-home, fly up to 7 kilometers (4.3 miles), and has a max speed of 36 mph if you’re really pushing it.

Available now for $199, or for $289 if you want extra batteries and a remote controller, it ships starting October 8th.

Image credits: DJI

Nikons Vending Machine Miniature Cameras

This Article is only available to Premium Subscribers (You)

Nikon and Bandai Namco have teamed up to make mini Nikon camera figurines that you can find in Japanese gashapon machines. These tiny collectibles are super detailed, with detachable lenses and a real treat for camera enthusiasts.

The Nikon Miniature Collection includes four different models: two classic film SLRs and two modern mirrorless cameras. You’ve got the Nikon F with its Nikkor-S Auto 55mm f/1.2 lens, the Nikon SP with a W-Nikkor 3.5cm f/1.8 prime, the Nikon Z fc with a Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens, and the flagship Nikon Z9 with a Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S zoom lens. Each figurine is about 20 millimeters tall, so they’re pretty tiny.

These mini cameras don’t actually take photos, unlike some toy cameras out there, but they’re a fantastic addition for collectors.

For those who haven’t encountered gashapon machines before, they’re like random toy vending machines. You put in some money—usually between 100 and 500 yen (about $1 to $4)—and get a random toy in return. The Nikon Miniature Collection is in the pricier range, so expect to pay around $4 per turn. If you’re trying to collect all four, it might take a few tries, especially since some models are rarer than others.

If you’re not in Japan and want to snag these mini cameras, you can look for them through third-party retailers or check out gashapon machines if you can find them. Bandai Namco lists some locations, and Reddit’s r/Gachapon subreddit has a custom Google Maps page for gashapon machines. For those in Japan, you can even try the Bandai x Nikon gashapon machines online. The Nikon Z fc and Nikon F are the most common, while the Nikon SP is the toughest to find.

Image credits: Bandai/Nikon

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