Canon News
Act fast — these are selling out fast.
Long telephoto lenses were meant for times like these. This was a scenario where I couldn't get any closer – wetter was not an option I was willing to accept. Not only did this lens's 600mm focal length make the animals substantial in the frame but the f/4 aperture created a blurred background even at this long distance, making the subject stand out.
I am considering a return to Rocky Mountain National Park in September. Let me know if you want to be part of this trip!
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Make the most of this time.
Nikon’s mission has always been to empower creators. In these uncertain times, we can do that by helping creators stay inspired, engaged and growing. That’s why we’re providing all of our courses free for the entire month of April. Let's come out of this even better.
Nikon School Online
While at B&H, check out today's list of B&H DealZone Deals for excellent savings opportunities (the Rogue Photographic design Flashbender 2 Reflector is included).
Tokyo, Japan - Sony Corporation today announced the establishment of the “Sony Global Relief Fund for COVID-19,” a 100 million US dollar fund to support those around the world affected by the COVID-19 virus.Through this fund, Sony will provide support in three areas: assistance for those individuals engaged in frontline medical and first responder efforts to fight the virus, support for children and educators who must now work remotely, and support for members of the creative community in the entertainment industry, which has been greatly impacted by the spread of the virus.
In terms of medical support, 10 million U.S. dollars of the fund will be devoted first to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for WHO powered by the UN Foundation and Swiss Philanthropy Foundation, as well as Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to assist medical workers and others on the frontline of response efforts to the virus. Sony will also work with its external partners to explore ways that it can support activities that prevent the further spread and contribute to treatment of the COVID-19 virus.In the area of education, where children, who represent the next generation, are losing education opportunities as a result of school closures, Sony will explore ways to leverage its technologies in support of education activities, and cooperate with educators to implement these measures.
Furthermore, in terms of the creative community such as music, pictures, games and animation, together with its group companies engaged in the entertainment industry, Sony will seek ways to support up-and-coming creators, artists and all those in professions supporting the industry, who have been impacted by the cancellation or postponement of concerts and live events, or the shutting down of film and television productions.Sony also announced that employees will be able to provide their support through a matching gift program that is scheduled to be offered to its approximately 110,000 employees worldwide.
Kenichiro Yoshida, President and CEO, Sony Corporation, said, “Sony extends its condolences to the families of those who have passed away as a result of the COVID-19 crisis, and extends its sympathies to all those who have been impacted. In order to overcome the unprecedented challenges that as a society we now face around the world, we will do all we can as a global company to support the individuals on the frontlines of the battle against COVID-19, the children who are our future, and those who have been impacted in the creative community.”Going forward, Sony will work together with its partners and stakeholders to explore ways to further extend these initiatives.
Check out the rest of the used RRS gear available at B&H.
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Other deals include Tascam, Rotolight, Peak Design, Porta Brace, and more.
Act fast – I'm not sure how long this price will hold.
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This head is a highly-recommended choice for long lens support.
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Awesome lens. Create some comparisons.
The Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | Henry's | WEX
Save up to over $2,000: check out the used EF 500mm lenses in stock at B&H.
Rent the Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM Lens from Lensrentals.
Please share!
Firmware Version 1.1.0 incorporates the following enhancement and fixes:
- The option to capture movies in the frame rate of 23.98p has been added.
- Fixes the phenomenon where the focus position of the lens returns to the home position if the camera powers off due to the "Auto Power Off" setting during Interval Timing shooting.
- Fixes the phenomenon in which, in rare cases, the camera may not autofocus at the edges of the image area.
The latest version of the instruction manual is available.
Check out our Canon EOS M6 Mark II Review.
Timely is that SmugMug is having a World Backup Day 20% Off Sale.
Enter into a 14 day free trial between now and Monday (4/6) and you'll automatically save 20% if you purchase a new account.
This is a really handy accessory and a great value.
The Oben ASPTA-20 Smartphone Tripod Adapter is in stock at B&H
Please share!
On this mid-July evening, I timed a trail run with the sunset and the clouds and slightly hazy summer sky cooperated to provide great color. The Sony FE 24-70mm f/4 ZA OSS Lens, small and light enough to not pose a physical limitation, was also getting a workout. This lens has the core general-purpose focal length range needed and it handled this scene nicely.
A larger version of this image is available on Flickr (and the foreground appears brighter in the larger size).
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One of my Stuck at Home Suggestions for Photographers was to get your backup plan fully implemented. Timely is that B&H is celebrating World Backup Day with big discounts on drives. Internal, external, portable, NVMe M.2, SSD, NAS, RAID, SDXC, USD drives, and more are included. Portable external drives start at $45.99 (1 TB) and savings amounts are up to $1,000.00.
Here are the deals by brand:
WD
Glyph Technologies
Seagate
NVMe M.2 Internal SSD
G-Technology
Promise Technology
Synology
SanDisk
How fast can you check out? This camera should be sold in minutes.
CANON U.S.A TO HOST VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE FOR NEW PROFESSIONAL IMAGING PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGIES
MELVILLE, N.Y., March 30, 2020 –– Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today that they will be hosting a Virtual Press Conference to unveil the company’s new professional imaging products and technologies. The Virtual Press Conference, which will be streamed on the Canon U.S.A. website at usa.canon.com/VPC2020, is scheduled to air on Monday, April 20, 2020, at 1:00 PM EDT/10:00 AM PT.
“As Canon continues to monitor the global response surrounding the spread of COVID-19, the effects of which have impacted every aspect of our lives, we would like to thank everyone for their understanding and ongoing support during this challenging time,” said Kazuto Ogawa, president, and chief operating officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc “The road ahead is long and filled with uncertainty, but when the broadcast and cinema industries are ready to resume ‘normal’ activities, Canon wants them to know we will be there to continue to support professionals with new products and technologies that meet their needs.”
The new Canon broadcast and cinema products featured during the Virtual Press Conference are aligned with the current and growing needs of the respective industries such as 4K UHD and HDR, as well as evolving technologies.
| Model | Rebate Amount | |
Tamron 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 Lens  | $100.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC Lens | $50.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD Lens | $50.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 Lens | $100.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 Lens | $100.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD Lens | $200.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di VC USD Lens | $20.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 20mm f/2.8 Di III OSD Lens | $50.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 24mm f/2.8 Di III OSD Lens | $50.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 35mm f/1.4 Di USD Lens | $200.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 35mm f/2.8 Di III OSD Lens | $50.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
| Tamron 45mm f/1.8 Di VC USD Lens | $200.00 | B&H | Adorama | Amazon |
Get two to surround your subject.
See today's full list of B&H DealZone Deals for excellent savings opportunities.
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This is a great monopod head.
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Expect Canon refurbished gear to be in like-new condition with a same-as-new warranty. This gear is a great deal anytime but it is an awesome deal at 10% off. The hottest models will sell out fast – shop now:
Cameras | Lenses | Flashes
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Product Highlights
- 8-layer carbon fiber in 4 sections
- 360 deg panning system for smooth movement
- Ball head for 20 deg tilting in any direction
- Spider with three support feet than can be positioned in two angles for uneven ground
- Sealed clip locks for secure support
- Comfortable wrist strap and soft leg wrap
- Reversible 1/4" and 3/4" screw for tripod head or camera
- Spider is completely removable - can be used as floor or table-top tripod
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Product Highlights
- HiBrite microLED PCB
- High CRI: >90
- 10-100% Dimming
- Multi-Voltage for Worldwide Use
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Product Highlights
- Holds 2 DSLR/Mirrorless Cameras & Lenses
- Sling Strap Design
- Front and Rear Connecting Straps
- Shoulder Pads
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If you only need a cardiod pickup pattern, you can save about $40 and pick up the also-reduced Senal SCM-600.
Product Highlights
- Dual 1.3" True Condenser Capsule
- Gold-Plated Diaphragm
- 3 Selectable Polar Patterns
- Selectable -10 dB Pad
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Product Highlights
- Flexible Legs Grip Trees, Pipes, etc.
- Supports up to 3.3 lb
- Compatible With Pocket Video Cameras
- Ideal for Point-and-Shoot Cameras
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The re-sizing ads are driving me crazy and I'm sure you are not fond of them. We are working on the issue and hope to have things improved very soon (I have a conference call scheduled in the morning).
Thanks for your patience!
Bryan
Find out what I think of this super-zoom lens.
The Sony FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | Henry's | WEX
Rent the Sony FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Lens from Lensrentals.
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Printing Simplified with the New Canon PIXMA TR150 Printer
Wireless1 Printer Provides Exceptional Quality Prints, While Small Size and Optional Battery Allow Portability for Out Of the Office Business Professionals
MELVILLE, NY, March 26, 2020 – Millions of people across the United States routinely work from home. It’s helpful if they, along with people who work from other remote locations, have transportable equipment that can fit into a variety of work-related circumstances. In the spirit of working wherever the business takes you, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, unveils today the new Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless1 Printer, as well as its optional battery for portability . The Canon PIXMA TR150 printer, when paired with the optional battery (sold separately), provides a lightweight portable option for quality printing needs for the out of the office business professional.
“With their time-consuming schedules, today’s business professionals require products that are easy to use and produce high-quality documents,” said Kazuto Ogawa, president and chief operating officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “The new Canon PIXMA TR150 printer can help business professionals in and out of the office to conduct business efficiently, leveraging Canon print technologies and features, including an OLED screen and Wi-Fi®1 connectivity.”
Printing Where and When Needed
If your office is the kitchen table or the living room sofa, bulky and clunky office equipment would not be feasible. Powered by USB charging or the optional battery, the Canon PIXMA TR150 printer can be your “whenever and wherever business calls” printer. Coming in at 4.5 pounds2 and approximately 12.7 inches x 7.3 inches x 2.6 inches, the Canon PIXMA TR150 printer features a 1.44 inch OLED display to help users easily install, set-up and connect the printer to compatible mobile devices. The screen also alerts the user to any troubleshooting issues such as paper needing to be refilled or low ink, helping to alleviate certain additional stresses that could occur during crunchtime moments.
The new Canon PIXMA TR150 printer features wireless connectivity via built-in 2.4GHz Wi-Fi®1 and if available, 5GHz Wi-Fi®1and, for users of compatible mobile devices, the added benefit of access to the Canon PRINT app3, allowing for easy setup and basic operations on compatible smartphone devices. Through the Canon PRINT app, users can easily access PIXMA Cloud Link3 to print documents from popular online social platforms and services, such as Box®, Facebook®, Dropbox®, Evernote®, Google Photos™, Google Drive™ and Microsoft® OneDrive®.
The new printer also features two black inks: a pigment-based black ink that delivers laser-like sharp text and a dye-based black ink that works to improve color contrast and image stabilization when printing photographs. With print speeds, of up to 9.0 ipm for black4 and 5.5 ipm for color4 – which stay consistent when using the optional battery, this small, lightweight printer can help you deliver client-ready projects quickly and professionally.
Pricing and Availability of the PIXMA TR150 Printer
Planned to be available in late March 2020, the Canon PIXMA TR150 printer will have an estimated retail price of $199.995 and the optional battery will have an estimated retail price of $99.995 For more information and the full list of product specifications, visit http://shop.usa.canon.com
# # #
† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Availability and specifications are subject to change without notice.
1 Wireless printing requires a working network with wireless 802.11b/g/n/ac or ad capability, operating at 2.4/5.0GHz. Wireless performance may vary based on terrain and distance between the printer and wireless network clients.
2 Weight without optional battery.
3 Requires an Internet connection and the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app, available for free on the App Store and at Google Play. Compatible with Apple devices running iOS® 11 or later, and AndroidTM mobile devices running Android 4.4 or later. Your device must be connected to the same working network with wireless 802.11 b/g/n/ac/ad capability as your printer.
4 Document print speeds are the averages of ESAT in Office Category Test for the default simplex mode, ISO/IEC 24734. Print speed may vary depending on system configuration, interface, software, document complexity, print mode, page coverage, type of paper used etc. See www.usa.canon.com/ipm for additional details.
5 Price is subject to change without notice. Actual price is set by individual dealers and may vary.
The Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer is available for order at B&H.
Canon Celebrates 17th Consecutive Year as Number One Shareholder of Global Interchangeable-Lens Digital Camera Market
MELVILLE, NY, March 26, 2020 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., today announced that its parent company, Canon Inc. has maintained the number one share of the global market for interchangeable-lens digital cameras (digital SLR and mirrorless cameras) for 17 consecutive years1 from 2003 to 2019.
Canon develops the key imaging system components featured in its EOS series of interchangeable-lens cameras—CMOS image sensors, image processors and interchangeable lenses—under the core concept of, “Speed, Comfort and High Image Quality.” Offering a wide-ranging product lineup—from high-performance flagship models that are highly trusted by professionals to entry-level models that allow users to enjoy high-image-quality shooting with easy operation—Canon continues to support the diverse needs of customers.
During the dawn of digital SLR cameras, Canon introduced its breakthrough EOS Digital Rebel (EOS Kiss Digital or EOS 300D in other regions) in September 2003. This groundbreaking camera, which was competitively priced and featured a compact, lightweight design, captured the top share of the global market and set the stage for growth in the digital SLR market. Since that time, Canon has continued to launch a range of groundbreaking products, including the professional-model EOS 1D series and the EOS 5D series, which paved the way for digital SLR video recording.
Canon introduced new possibilities for photographic expression with the launch of the EOS R System in October 2018. Including such products as the EOS R full-frame mirrorless camera and RF lenses that fully leverage the company’s optical technologies, the new products helped further expand the Canon EOS System. In 2019, Canon launched a wide range of products2 including the EOS RP full-frame mirrorless camera in March and EOS 90D DSLR in September. In striving to further expand its lineup, Canon managed to secure the number one share of the global market for the 17th consecutive year.
Canon is also currently developing the EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera, equipped with a newly developed full-frame CMOS sensor and featuring high-speed continuous shooting for still images and 8K video recording. The company is also currently developing seven RF lenses and two RF lens extenders, including the RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM, and plans to release them throughout the course of 2020. Canon will continue to refine its diverse imaging technologies based on its core optical technology, to expand and create a stronger EOS System for both DSLR and mirrorless cameras. These innovations open up new avenues of image capture to meet the needs of increasingly diverse users and to promote the spread of photo and video culture.
# # #
† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
1 Based on a Canon survey.
2 Canon released six interchangeable-lens camera models in 2019: EOS RP (March), EOS Kiss X10 (April), EOS 90D (September), EOS M6 Mark II (September), EOS M200 (October), EOS Ra (December).
Product Highlights
- For Studio Recording/Broadcast/Podcasts
- Cardioid Polar Pattern
- Large 1" Gold-Plated Diaphragm
- Wide Frequency Response
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Product Highlights
- Filmmaking, TV, and Web Broadcast
- Optimized for DSLR Shooters
- Dual XLR-1/4" Inputs with Phantom Power
- 3.5mm Mic/Line Input with Plug-In Power
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Product Highlights
- Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22
- Nine FLD Elements, One SLD Element
- Super Multi-Layer Coating
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Awesome lens. Create some comparisons.
The Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | Henry's | WEX
Save up to over $2,000: check out the used EF 500mm lenses in stock at B&H.
Rent the Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM Lens from Lensrentals.
Please share!
Now is a great to time upgrade your system and accessories.
Future Firmware: EOS-1D X Mark III
Thank you for using Canon products.
We have confirmed that the following phenomenon may occur during use of the EOS-1D X Mark III digital SLR camera. A new firmware release is planned for early April; once the new firmware is ready, we will make an announcement on our website.
We would like to offer our sincere apologies to users of these products who may have been inconvenienced by this issue
Phenomenon
When the camera is used with the electronic level set to “Show” in the viewfinder display, in rare cases, the camera may not perform normally when operating the AF-ON button or shutter button.
Affected Product
EOS-1D X Mark III (Firmware version 1.0.0)
Workaround
Use the “Hide” setting for the “Electronic level” in the “Viewfinder display”.
Setting procedure:
Menu / Set-up 2 tab / Viewfinder display / Electronic level* [Hide]
*Default setting: [Hide]
Support
In early-April 2020, we plan to release a firmware update to address the phenomenon listed above. Once the new firmware is ready, we will make an announcement on the Canon U.S.A website.
In the interim, please follow the steps provided in the workaround.
If you have not already done so, please register the EOS-1D X Mark III. By registering, we will be able to notify you via email about future announcements.
Check out our full Canon EOS-1D X Mark III review and order yours now.
Notice to our Customers regarding closure of California, New Jersey, Illinois, and Hawaii Service Facilities
Due to the “stay at home” directives from authorities in California, New Jersey, Illinois, and Hawaii, as well as local “Shelter in Place” orders, our Canon service facilities in those states are temporarily closed until further notice. Products needing repair can be directed to our Factory Service Center in Newport News, Virginia. Please note that walk-in service is not available at this location. We apologize for any inconvenience and delays that may occur during this time. We greatly appreciate your patience and understanding.
We encourage you to use our online system to set up the service of your product at: https://www.usa.canon.com/repair.
The spread of COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving situation that is of great concern to everyone. Canon’s commitment is to take proactive and proportional steps in accordance with all recommended procedures and protocols as advised by the CDC, the United States Government, and state, regional and local public health agencies.
Again, we sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to monitor the ongoing situation and follow the advice and guidance of federal and state authorities. The health and well-being of our customers, clients, and employees remain our top priority during this difficult time. As conditions change, we will take recommended and appropriate steps to restore and continue the excellent service that you have come to expect from Canon USA, Inc. For updates and other information regarding COVID-19 measures, please visit our web site: https://www.usa.canon.com/internet/portal/us/home/about/to-our-customers
From the Adobe Photoshop YouTube Channel:
Meredith Stotzner shows you how to get rid of tools that don’t spark joy. Do some spring-cleaning in your Photoshop Toolbar to make it simple and more efficient.
B&H carries Adobe Photography Plan subscriptions.
While this bag may have been designed to carry a camcorder, the section dividers provided make it a good bag for general photography gear as well.
Product Highlights
- Fits Video Cameras up to 16.5" Long
- Wide Opening for Easy Access to Gear
- Water-Resistant Hard Exterior Shell
- Removable Interior Bucket Design
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Product Highlights
- Instant Push-Pedal Height Adjustment
- Quickly Adjust Between High & Low Angles
- Ideal for Fast-Paced Scenes, Like Dances
- 25 lb Payload / 28 - 62.5" Height
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Product Highlights
- Provides 2 to 8 Stops of Light Control
- Rotating Ring to Choose Degree of ND
- Eliminates Buying Many ND Filters
- Use to Create Blurs/Special Effects
Expect Canon refurbished gear to be in like-new condition with a same-as-new warranty. This gear is a great deal anytime but it is an awesome deal at 10% off. The hottest models will sell out fast – shop now:
Cameras | Lenses | Flashes
If temporarily unemployed, you suddenly find yourself with a huge amount of time available. Even if still working but from home, you no longer have commute time in your schedule. While relaxation has some value (I keep telling myself that), I challenge you to stay motivated and make good use of your extra time.
Shoot the Kids
If you have kids, they are extremely important to you but finding time in overlapping schedules is often a major obstacle for photographing them. Your schedule and their schedule have likely been cleared, green-lighting this project. I promise that you will not regret having the images and your kids might find it of value to share the pics on their social media (market that usage to get their buy-in).
Shoot formal portraits ranging from full-body (slightly wide-angle to normal focal lengths) to tight headshots (telephoto lens), find brightly-colored clothing and props, go wild with lighting, photograph them doing something they are passionate about, make them go out and get some exercise while you work a run and gun approach to catch them in action, etc.
When the kids lose patience, move to the pets — or consider including the pets to extend the kids' patience.
Shoot yourself
Perhaps your Facebook, LinkedIn, and other social media profile pictures are lacking in quality? No need to hire someone for this — go into full selfie mode. Consider photographing yourself doing something you frequently do such as exercise (which should always be part of your routine) and consider using an exposure long enough to create some motion blur as motion is a minimum requirement for exercise.
Shoot Something Different
If birds and wildlife are your thing, try shooting architecture. If you are a portrait photographer, try wildlife. Browse Instagram, Flickr, etc. for ideas. Now is a great time to learn to shoot video. Perhaps the portfolio you build from this experience will open new doors.
Shoot with Something Different
A lot of the fun of photography is using new gear and that is a valid reason to try another brand camera. This is a great time to try a mirrorless camera model. Tilt-shift lenses are very educational (and useful).
A new season is coming and now is a great time to research the gear you need to capture it. If unsure about your future with that gear or you can't afford to buy it, go big for a small cost by renting something. It is super easy to order a camera, a lens, lighting gear, etc. from Lensrentals and have it show up on your doorstep.
Shoot from New Heights and Angles
Shoot from positions that require you, your tripod, and/or minimally your camera to go into positions they are not normally used in. This may be from up high, down low, very close, very far, etc. Go for a walk with your camera with a self-imposed limitation such as "All images must be captured within 6" (150mm) of the ground.
I know, that electronic viewfinder level not showing all green makes us perfectionists hesitate to press the shutter release but sometimes it is OK to take a not-gravity-level photo. Consider imposing a limitation on the angle of the camera such as angled 45° downward, tilted 45° sideways, or both.
Shoot Your House
Think like a real estate photographer and photograph your house. Shoot the exterior during the blue hour. Stage and photograph the interior with an ultra-wide-angle lens, timing the shooting with exterior light levels if relevant for your space. Then market yourself to the local real estate companies.
Shoot Something Small
Especially for a macro lens, there are unending subjects available.
Bring a flower in from your garden. If your garden is bare, perhaps a neighbor would trade one of their flowers for a much-longer-lasting print. Or, perhaps you can buy a subject.
Go through your cabinets and drawers looking for interesting subjects that could include noodles, candy, utensils, etc. Find colorful art supplies such as crayons and pencils.
Hint: if it comes in a box or bag and is in your cupboards, it might make a great pattern subject. Consider photographing one unique small subject among a significant amount of similar subjects.
Hint 2: Avoid eating too much of your subject until the project is finished.
Hint 3: This is a great time to learn lighting including with flash.
Hint 4: Try focus stacking.
Hint 5: Try strong white balance adjustments.
Shoot Blur
Everyone loves a lens blur and an easy way to get artistic is to intentionally blur a scene by making it out of focus. I often shoot intentional focus blurs when testing lenses and sometimes I like the results enough to keep them. Shooting these blurs will teach you how to approach a scene differently with the structure created by color and contrast taking over the frame.
Consider going really crazy with zoom blurs. Use an exposure long enough to allow you to turn the zoom ring a noticeable amount while the exposure is being captured. A tripod will usually improve these results.
Attach your camera to something moving. Use an exposure duration that is long enough to make the scene blurred with, ideally, whatever the camera is attached to remaining sharp. If lacking a good mounting platorm, simply hold the camera in front of a colorful scene and, while using a long exposure, pan the camera left and right to create a sea of color. Note that a Neutral Density Filter may prove vital for achieving exposure durations necessary for optimal results.
Include something very close in the foreground that adds blur to an otherwise-common-appearing subject such as a person (please do not block their face).
Consider using a tilt-shift lens to create interesting blurs.
Shoot Sharp
Focus calibrating cameras and lenses can be time-consuming but the adjustments can be worthwhile to make. Go through your kit, shooting a Datacolor SpyderLensCal or other focus calibration aid and fine-tune your combinations to perfection.
Shoot for the Background
Find a background that works superbly with the focal length you are using and then find an attractive subject to place in the foreground for a sure win. Sometimes different lighting on the subject and background can create a look that stands out.
Research Your Next Shoot
Determine what subject you want to photograph, determine where and when is optimal for that subject, and make plans to be there with the right gear. Utilize apps such as The Photographer's Ephemeris and Photo Pills to determine the alignment of the celestial attractions.
Sign up for a workshop going to a location that interests you. Enjoy the anticipation of capturing your planned image(s).
Improve an Image You Already Shot
Re-post-processing is a thing. Hopefully your photo editing skills are improving and likely you captured some great images in the past that could now be re-processed for better results. Perhaps some challenging images you didn't attempt processing are now within your capabilities.
Now is a great time to learn a new software application. Consider adding Photoshop & Lightroom, Capture One, and/or Luminar (use coupon code THEDIGITALPICTURE to get a $10.00 discount) to your kit and skill set.
Share What You Shot
If you are not already maintaining a portfolio site, now is a great time to set one up. I use SmugMug and highly recommend their service which optionally includes selling. Plans start at only $48 per year and a 14-day trial is available.
Consider taking your marketing/professionalism to the next step by purchasing a personal domain name and hosting for it. Through experience, I can tell you that there are a lot of bad web hosts out there. There are also some very good ones and an inexpensive host I have grown to trust is InMotionHosting. SmugMug can also utilize your custom domain name with their hosting.
If you already maintain a portfolio site, this is a good time to remove the lower-grade images still there. Your skills are surely improving and some of those old images are no longer reflecting your abilities.
Print What You Shot
You now have time to create that family or trip photo book you have been putting off. Perhaps it is time to put some of your prints on your walls. Consider metal prints — they are awesome and you don't have to select or buy a frame. Also not requiring a frame and loved by most are canvas prints. Printique (formerly AdoramaPix) is one of my favorites.
Backup What You Shot
You have a backup plan that includes secure, remote off-site storage, right? If so, make sure that those backups are current. If not, fix that problem ASAP. WD My Passport external drives are a great option.
Scan What You Shot
Still have prints and slides hanging around? Don't wait any longer to digitize them. I used the predecessor to the Epson Perfection V550 Photo Film and Document Scanner to digitize my old prints and the kid's artwork and still use it to eliminate most of my paper receipts.
Learn to Shoot Better
Learning is worth intentionally interrupting work for and the decision to spend time learning during a forced interruption is a no-brainer. Our Photography Tips page is a good place to start. Professional Photographers of America (PPA) has made a huge set of free online classes available.
Upgrade your Computer and Home Office
You have been tolerating that old, slow computer for long enough. It is time for a change and you have time to set up a new system, migrating your images and workflow. A faster system will save you valuable time later and a more reliable system will save more than time. I have been using Dell XPS computers for about 20 years.
While at it, if kids are involved, upgrade all of the systems. Education is extremely important and making learning easier will encourage that practice.
Is your printer adequate? A wireless printer makes life much easier in our house.
If spending a significant amount of time sitting, the ergonomics of your chair become very important. Check out the full range of home computing necessities at B&H and Amazon.
Do you enjoy music while at your desk? A quality sound system can make a big difference.
During a time of change is a good time to drop bad habits and start new ones. Hopefully something just said has stirred your creativity and motivation. Move in positive new directions. This world is a better place with you in it — carpe diem.
Product Highlights
- 5.5" FOCUS OLED SDI Onboard Monitor
- D-Tap to L-Series Battery Adapter
- FOCUS Tilt Arm & Focus Sun Shade
- L-Series Type Battery
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