Ai and the death of photography

Introduction:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made significant advancements in recent years, revolutionizing various industries. One area where AI has made a profound impact is photography. While some view AI-generated images as an existential threat to artists, others see it as an opportunity to enhance their creative process. In this article, we will explore the implications of AI on photography and discuss how it can be both a threat and an opportunity for artists across different disciplines.

The Rise of AI-Generated Images:

AI algorithms have become increasingly proficient at generating realistic images that are virtually indistinguishable from those captured by traditional cameras. These algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data and learn to replicate various artistic styles, compositions, and even emotions. This has led to the creation of AI-generated images that can rival the work of human photographers.

The Threat to Artists:

For many artists, the emergence of AI-generated images raises concerns about the future of their craft. They fear that AI will render their skills obsolete, as anyone with access to AI tools can produce high-quality images without the need for technical expertise or artistic vision. This fear extends beyond photographers to musicians, video editors, 3D artists, and other creative professionals who rely on their artistic abilities to make a living.

The Opportunity for Collaboration:

While AI-generated images can indeed mimic the work of human photographers, they lack the depth of human experience and creativity. This presents an opportunity for artists to collaborate with AI, using it as a tool to enhance their creative process rather than replacing it. By leveraging AI algorithms, artists can automate repetitive tasks, explore new artistic possibilities, and push the boundaries of their craft.

AI as a Tool:

Just as software has always been a tool for artists, AI can be seen in the same light. It is a set of tools that artists can utilize to augment their artistic expression. AI algorithms can assist in tasks such as image enhancement, automatic tagging, and even generating initial concepts. This allows artists to focus more on the conceptualization and interpretation of their work, rather than getting bogged down by technicalities.

Ethical Considerations:

As AI-generated images become more prevalent, ethical considerations arise. The question of authorship and ownership becomes blurred when AI algorithms are involved in the creative process. Additionally, the potential for misuse and manipulation of AI-generated images raises concerns about the authenticity and trustworthiness of visual content.

Conclusion:

AI has undoubtedly disrupted the field of photography, raising questions about its impact on artists. While some perceive it as a threat, others view it as an opportunity for collaboration and exploration. By embracing AI as a tool, artists can leverage its capabilities to enhance their creative process and push the boundaries of their craft. However, ethical considerations must be addressed to ensure the responsible use of AI-generated images. Ultimately, the future of photography lies in the hands of artists who can harness the power of AI while preserving their unique artistic vision.

If you are interested in learning more about AI tools and how they might impact our lives check out these articles.

1. The weird and wonderful art created when AI and humans unite. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20221123-the-weird-and-wonderful-art-created-when-ai-and-humans-unite on 24 Feb 2023

2. Machine Dreams: Art And Artificial Intelligence. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/tabithagoldstaub/2018/09/24/machine-dreams-art-and-artificial-intelligence on 24 Feb 2023

3. How Artificial Intelligence Is Edging Its Way Into Our Lives. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/12/technology/artificial-intelligence-new-work-summit.html on 24 Feb 2023

For the latest on AI tools check out this comprehensive site https://www.futuretools.io/ by Matt Wolfe and be sure to subscribe to his YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@mreflow for the very latest reviews and tips & tricks on AI-related tools! Also, check out my art at Redbubble!

 

The X-T5: Should I upgrade from my X-T2?

Welcome to the family X-T5!

Fujifilm X-T1 to the X-T5

Fujifilm X-T5 is 3 generations newer than my venerable X-T2. It is a camera designed specifically for photographers who want to capture high-quality photos. How much better is it than my X-T2?

Here are the main features of the X-T5

The Fujifilm X-T5 is a photography-focused camera that features a five-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system that provides up to 7.0 stops of compensation and a 3.69 million dot EVF with an 0.8x magnification ratio. The camera body only weighs 557g (1.23lb), making it lightweight and easy to carry around. The X-T5 has dedicated dials for shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation, as well as a pair of command dials. The higher pixel count increases the number of phase detection pixels, which improves AF-S focusing accuracy on subjects including landscapes and portraits. The camera also incorporates an improved AF prediction algorithm, newly developed for the X-H2S, enabling stable focusing even when using AF-C.

The X-T5 has a two-way tilting rear screen mechanism that works well for composing off-axis shots in both landscape and portrait orientations. It is narrower than the X-T4 by 5.1mm and shorter by 1.8mm, bringing it closer to the size of the original X-T1 and film cameras it aped. The grip has been redesigned for better handling. The camera uses the same processor as the latest X-H cameras but must be making some performance compromises for the sake of a compact body with a smaller internal cooling system. Vlogging be damned, Fujifilm made other conscious decisions to cater to photographers who favor traditional street-style cameras of older X-T models.

The new model is 30 grams lighter than the X-T4 and nearly the same dimensions as the original X-T1 but still thicker, which reverses Fujifilm’s trend of slowly growing these cameras over time. While it looks like its predecessors, it continues with classic looks/dedicated dials approach that many X-series photographers have come to love. With all those advanced features inside the well-loved X-T style, it looks like quite a promising camera.

The Fujifilm X-T5 is a mirrorless camera that features a 40MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 HR BSI sensor, which provides unrivaled image quality in a timeless, classic, and beloved camera body. The camera has an ISO range of 125-12,800 (exp 64-51,200) and shutter speeds of 1/180000-30secs (electronic). It also has a five-axis in-body image stabilization system that provides up to 7.0 stops of compensation and a 3.69 million dot EVF with an 0.8x magnification ratio. The X-T5 handles much like its predecessors, favoring manual dials in sensible positions to help you take full control of your image-making.

The Fujifilm X-T5 can shoot video at 10-bit 4:2:2 video at 6.2K/30P or 4K/60p webcam mode. It has a dual UHS card slot for up to two SD cards and weighs only 476g (body only). The camera has a micro HDMI port and a 3.5mm microphone jack. The X-T series has always been more about the photography experience than bleeding-edge technology, but the Fujifilm X-T5 certainly isn't found wanting when it comes to features.

Get Luminar Neo now by clicking on the image

The Fujifilm X-T5's image quality is nigh-on identical to that of the X-H2, which means it's among the best you can find on an APS-C sensor camera. However, its high resolution isn't completely without compromise as the size of those files and the absence of a CFexpress card slot mean that the X-T5's buffer is limited for raw burst shooting. Still, it offers continuous shooting at up to15fps with limited buffer capacity.

The Fujifilm X-T5 is lightweight yet high-performance with weather-sealed points for high levels of dust and moisture resistance. It can operate in temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F). Thanks to the reduced power consumption of the X-Processor 5, battery life for still images has been significantly increased from approximately 600 to740 frames compared to the previous model.

To upgrade or not to upgrade? That is the question!

The Fujifilm X-T5 is a significant upgrade from the X-T2, especially in the autofocus department. The X-T5's sensor provides 16.2MP more than the X-T2's sensor, which gives a significant advantage in real life. I could print my images larger or crop more freely. However, keep in mind that maximum sensor resolution is not the only determinant of resolving power. Factors such as optical elements, low pass filter, pixel size, and sensor technology also affect the final resolution of the captured image.

Staying with the Fujifilm X-T series and keeping my Fujifilm X-T2 as a second camera with mostly the same ergonomics is also an option. If I upgrade to the Fujifilm X-H series, it will give me a path to go to Fujifilm's next-generation camera if and when you need speed. I did own the X-H2 but sold it when we needed the money to pay the bills after the pandemic had eaten into our savings. I will look at the X-H series in another post soon.

So, to upgrade or not to upgrade? Well, as mentioned, Fujifilm also have the X-H series so I need to comapre the X-T2 (and later models) the those cameras.

Note:

The latest firmware version for the Fujifilm X-T5 is version 1.03 as of February 16th, 2023. To update your firmware version on your camera body, check out Fujifilm site here for detailed instructions.

Creativity. Community. And sweet, sweet cash.

Calling all artists!

Are you creative. Do you want to make money from your art? Check out Redbubble. You can sell your art printed on high-quality products to a global audience. It’s fun, easy, and quick to get started.

Below are images of just one of the many products I have for sale in my Redbubble shop.

You can offer similar products (choose from more than 75 different ones including posters, stickers, iPhone cases, laptop sleeves and posters) and it's easy to do. Once you have signed up for an account you can start uploading iamges and from there it's really easy to create dozens of products and get paid when they sell!

Here is just one of my recent creations - Cute owlet illustration sticker Mouse Pad.

Features

• Plays smooth and stands firm, just like a mouse pad should
• Microweave polyester surface for optimal mouse control
• Anti-slip natural rubber base
• Anti-fray edges and pill-resistant surface for maximum durability
• Supports optical and laser mice
• Available in Small (9.5" x 8" / 24.1cm x 20.3cm) and Medium (14.5" x 12.12" / 36.8cm x 30.8cm) surface sizes
• Thickness: 0.1 inch / 3mm
• Spot clean with damp cloth

Calling all artists! Are you looking for a new way to showcase and sell your amazing creations? Look no further than Redbubble! Originally known for its focus on photography, Redbubble has since grown into a vibrant community of all types of artists. With humble beginnings in Melbourne, Australia back in 2006, the vision for Redbubble was clear: to empower independent artists with a platform to share their talent and connect with fans worldwide. Today, Redbubble boasts a network of over 700,000 talented artists and designers from around the globe, and millions of enthusiastic fans. So, if you're ready to showcase your creativity and build your own fanbase, what are you waiting for? Join Redbubble's amazing community of artists today!

The Photographer's Guide to Capturing Stunning Landscapes

Essex landscape by Steven Dale

Landscapes is one of the most popular categories in photography, with portrait and wedding photography perhaps being the most popular, depending on which platform we are looking at (websites, social media etc).

Capturing stunning landscapes can be a rewarding experience for photographers of all levels. Here are some tips to help you capture breathtaking landscapes:

1. Choose the right time of day: The lighting can have a huge impact on the look of your landscape photos. For example, early morning or late afternoon light can produce a warm, golden glow, while mid-day light can be too harsh and wash out the colors.
2. Find the right perspective: Get down low or climb up high to find a unique perspective. Experiment with different angles to see what works best.
3. Use leading lines: Leading lines help to draw the viewer's eye into the photo and add depth to the composition. Look for natural lines in the landscape, such as a river or a road, to lead the eye into the photo.
4. Pay attention to the sky: The sky can often be an important part of a landscape photo. Look for interesting cloud formations or use the sky to create balance in the photo.
5. Experiment with depth of field: Adjusting the depth of field can help to emphasize certain parts of the photo and create a sense of depth. A shallow depth of field can blur the background and make the subject stand out, while a deep depth of field can keep the entire scene in focus.
6. Use filters: Neutral density (ND) filters can help to control the exposure and prevent overexposure in bright light. Polarizing filters can reduce glare and enhance the colors in the sky and water.
7. Edit with care: Post-processing can help to enhance the colors and improve the overall look of the photo. However, be careful not to over-process the photo and maintain the natural beauty of the landscape.

These are just a few tips to help you capture stunning landscapes. The most important thing is to have fun and experiment with different techniques to see what works best for you.

Here are some examples based on these tips:

Leading lines Copyright Steven Dale 2023

Shooting from low down - Copright Steven Dale 2023

Evening shot Copyright Steven Dale 2023

Mastering the Art of Photography: Tips and Tricks

If you are serious about your photography, then you will want to progress your skills. It can be hard at first and so it's always welcome if someone gives you some good advice to help you on your way. Well, here are some tips and tricks to get you started:

1. Know your camera: Familiarize yourself with the settings and controls of your camera to make the most of its features.
2. Study composition: Study the rule of thirds, leading lines, and other composition techniques to create visually appealing photos.
3. Experiment with light: Play with natural light, artificial light, and shadows to create different moods in your photos.
4. Use manual mode: Get out of auto mode and experiment with manual settings like shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to have more control over your photos.
5. Edit your photos: Use editing software to enhance your photos and bring out the best in them.
6. Keep practicing: The more you practice, the better you will become. Take photos regularly and keep experimenting with new techniques.
7. Get inspired: Look at the work of other photographers and find inspiration in their photos to improve your own.
8. Tell a story: Think about the story you want to tell with your photos and try to capture that in each shot.
9. Stay organised: Keep track of your photos and organize them so you can easily find and access them in the future.

Looking at some of these in more detail:

Know your camera

Most people fail to read the manual when they buy a new camera, which is a big mistake. However, once you have read the manual, what next? Well, there are plenty of excellent books out there. Here are some examples:

You can also sign up for online course geared to your camera or workshops. As well as camera manufacturers, some dealers also run courses. Check out these links:

Udemy - Choose from 213,000 online video courses with new additions published every month, including camera manufacturer specific ones.

Nikon School - A range of courses delivered through Zoom in an easy to access and intuitive manner

Canon UK - Get inspired with tips and techniques to get the most out of your Canon camera.

Fujifilm UK - The Fujifilm Beginner course has been designed for photographers that are just starting off their journey with a Fujifilm camera.

Sony UK - Sony Alpha Academy is our FREE e-learning platform for our Sony Alpha community.

Olympus - Welcome to the OM SYSTEM Learn Center. Whether you're an OM SYSTEM camera owner or are considering making the switch, discover tips, events, and more to help you learn.

Open College of the Arts - We’re an open-access photography courses college, this means that you do not have to have completed any specific qualifications prior to enrolling. All you need is a keen interest in cameras and areas of photography, and you can begin to pursue your interest at a higher level to broaden your skills and build a portfolio.

Study composition

Composition comes naturally to some but most of us need to leant to understand some of the rules of composition to get the best out of our photography. Some fo these rules of composition may be familiar, others not to much.

1. Rule of Thirds: Divide the frame into thirds horizontally and vertically, and place the subject along the lines or at the intersection points for a balanced and harmonious composition.
2. Leading Lines: Use lines within the frame to lead the viewer's eye towards the subject, creating a sense of direction and depth.
3. Symmetry and Patterns: Use symmetry or repeating patterns to create a sense of balance and harmony in the photo.
4. Diagonal Lines: Use diagonal lines to create a sense of movement or tension in the photo.
5. Backgrounds: Pay attention to the background of the shot and try to keep it simple and uncluttered, or use it to enhance the subject in creative ways.
6. Negative Space: Use negative space to isolate the subject and draw attention to it.
7. Balance: Try to balance the elements in the photo, either by using symmetry, or by adjusting the placement of objects to create a visual balance.
8. Framing: Use elements in the foreground, background, or environment to frame the subject and draw attention to it.
9. Simplicity: Keep the composition simple, with a clear subject and minimal distractions.

These rules are just guidelines, and the most important thing is to experiment and find what works best for you and the story you want to tell with your photos.

Example of using diagonal lines in an image - Copyright Steven Dale 2023.

Use of leading lines in an image

Here are some books you might find useful on composition in photography:

Hopefully you found this post useful. Thanks for reading.

From Beginner to Pro: A Guide to Improving Your Photography Skills

Photo-editing software

Want to become a better photographer?

Most of us have taken photographs and at some point been disappointed with the results. We may even have wanted to improve our photography skills and looked at books, websites and bought magazines devoted to photography. If you have thought abouut not just improving your skills but about becoming a more serious and proficient photographer, perhaps even going professional at some point, then how can you best improve your skills?

Here are some tips for improving your photography skills:

Practice regularly: 

The more you shoot, the more you will develop your skills and creativity. Try to shoot as often as possible and experiment with different subjects and techniques.

Study the work of others: 

Look at the work of other photographers to get inspiration and learn from their techniques and styles.

Learn the technical aspects: 

Understanding the technical aspects of photography, such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and composition, will give you greater control over your images and help you to achieve the results you want.

Experiment with different equipment: 

Try different lenses, cameras, and accessories to find the tools that work best for you and your photography.

Get out of your comfort zone:
Try new subjects, locations, and styles of photography to keep your work fresh and interesting.

Edit your work:
Take the time to edit your images and refine your post-processing skills. Experiment with different editing techniques and software to find what works best for you.

Seek feedback:
Ask for feedback from other photographers or share your work online and get feedback from a wider audience.

Keep learning:
Stay up-to-date with the latest photography techniques and trends by reading photography books, articles, and blogs, and attending workshops and photography courses.

By following these tips and consistently putting in the effort, you can improve your photography skills and develop your own unique style and vision.

Here are some links to websites you might find useful:

1. The Photographer's Gallery - A place for the discovery, exploration and understanding of photography in all its forms. This place was an inspiration for me in the early days of taking my photography serious and I have seen many great exhibitions over the years there.
2. Magnum Photos - For more than 70 years Magnum has been creating the highest quality photographic content for an international client base of media, charities, publishers, brands and cultural institutions. The Magnum library is also a living archive updated regularly with new work from across the globe.
3. The Association of Photographers - The Association of Photographers was first formed in 1968 as the Association of Fashion and Advertising Photographers and is one of the most prestigious professional photographers' associations in the world.
4. The Royal Photographic Society - The RPS is an educational charity committed to bringing photography to everyone. Founded when photography was in its infancy, today we are a world-leading photographic community.

All the above websites will provide with you a wealth of inspiration from some of the greatest photographers of all genres. You can also join an organisation such as the RPS or AOP and benefit from interacting with other photographers, attending seminars and talks, as well having the opportunity to have your work  reviewed and advice given. 

Another site well worth visiting is lensculture - which runs competitions judged by professionals in the industry with the opportunity to have your portfolio reviewed. Single images can be entered for free into cometitions but there is a charge for entering several images. However, a free portfolio review is often offered as part fo the entry free. For an example of what portfolio review looks like why not check out one of mine here!

How to capture emotion in your photos?

Mastering the Art of Capturing Emotion in Your Photos

We, as photography enthusiasts, understand that the essence of a photograph lies in its ability to evoke emotions. It's not just about clicking a picture; it's about capturing the feelings, the soul of the moment. In this article, we will explore the secrets to achieving this magical feat.

Connecting with Your Subject

The first step in creating emotionally charged photographs is establishing a connection with your subject. Whether it's a friend, a family member, or a complete stranger, take the time to get to know them. Understand their personality, emotions, and body language. Ask questions, listen, and build that rapport.

The Power of Lighting

Lighting is the brush with which we paint our images. Good lighting can enhance the mood and emotion in your photos. Experiment with different sources of light. Natural light, with its soft, gentle touch, can be perfect for portraying warmth and serenity. On the other hand, backlighting and shadows can add depth and drama to your shots.

The Patience Game

To capture raw, unfiltered emotions, patience is your best friend. Wait for the right moment to capture that emotional peak. Observe body language, gestures, and facial expressions. Learn to anticipate when the magic will unfold.

Choosing the Right Lens

The choice of lens can make or break the emotional impact of your photograph. A longer lens can compress the background, bringing the subject's emotion to the forefront. On the other hand, a wide-angle lens can create a dynamic scene, adding a touch of excitement to the shot.

Exploring Different Angles

Experimentation is the key to creativity. Try shooting from various angles, whether it's low to the ground for an intimate perspective or high above to capture a broader view. Each angle can convey a different emotion and tell a unique story.

The Art of Composition

How you frame your subject and arrange elements within the frame is crucial. It can greatly influence the emotional impact of the photo. Rule of thirds, leading lines, and symmetry are all composition techniques that can help you convey the desired emotion.

Authenticity is the Key

Genuine emotions can only be captured if you are authentic in your approach. Don't intrude, and always respect your subject's privacy. Let the moments flow naturally, and you'll capture true emotions.
Post-processing Magic

Editing your photos can be the final touch that brings out the desired emotions. Fine-tune lighting, color, and contrast with editing tools to enhance the mood of your pictures. Remember, editing should enhance, not distort.

In the end, remember that every photograph is a story waiting to be told. By following these steps, you can create images that resonate with your viewers, just as Dorothea Lange's iconic "Migrant Mother" did during the Great Depression.

By mastering the art of capturing emotions in your photos, you'll not only engage your audience but also etch your work into the annals of photography history. So, go out there, connect, observe, and create photos that speak to the heart.

Migrant Mother (1936) by Dorothea Lange

This famous photograph is searing in its depiction of the utter desperation the Great Depression brought to so many and has become a symbol of the Depression. This woman was one of many migrant workers picking peas in California in the 1930s to make just enough money to survive.

It was taken by photographer Dorothea Lange as she traveled with her new husband, Paul Taylor, to document the hardships of the Great Depression for the Farm Security Administration.

Lange spent five years (1935 to 1940) documenting the lives and hardships of the migrant workers, ultimately receiving the Guggenheim Fellowship for her efforts.

If you can achieve a similar level of emotion in your images you are doing really well.

The Importance of Composition in Photography

 Composition in photography refers to the arrangement of elements within a frame to create a visually pleasing and effective image. It plays a crucial role in conveying the photographer's message, evoking emotions, and directing the viewer's attention. Good composition helps to simplify a complex scene, highlight important subjects, and create a strong sense of balance, unity, and visual interest. It is one of the most essential elements of good photography and can greatly enhance the impact and effectiveness of a photograph.

The first comprehensive written theories on composition in photography are widely attributed to Henry Peach Robinson and Francis Bacon, both of whom wrote about the subject in the late 19th century. However, the principles of composition have been used by artists and visual storytellers for centuries and have been adapted for use in photography as the medium evolved. Since then, many other photographers and writers have contributed to the development of composition theory, adding their own insights and techniques to create a rich body of knowledge that continues to shape the way photographers think about and approach composition.

The "rules of composition" in photography refer to guidelines that photographers can use to create well-composed images. These rules are not strict rules but rather suggestions that can be used to improve the balance, harmony, and visual impact of a photograph. Some of the most commonly cited rules of composition include:

• The Rule of Thirds: Dividing the frame into thirds both horizontally and vertically, and placing important elements along those lines or at their intersections.
• Leading Lines: Using lines in the scene to lead the eye into and through the image.
• Balance: Achieving balance by arranging elements within the frame in a way that feels harmonious and stable.
• Simplicity: Simplifying the scene by removing distracting elements and focusing on the most important elements.
• Depth: Creating a sense of depth by including foreground, middle-ground, and background elements.
• Contrast: Using contrasting elements, such as color or light and dark, to draw the eye and create visual interest.

These are just a few examples of the many rules of composition that photographers can use to guide their creative process. It's important to remember that these rules are not strict and can be broken if doing so helps to create a stronger, more effective image. Ultimately, the goal of composition is to create a visually pleasing and impactful image, and any guidelines or rules should be used as tools to achieve that goal.

Rule of Thirds:

Copyright image by Jeffrey Scism

Here is an example of the use of the Rule of Thirds. As you can see, the main subject of the image is located at the intersection of the right  and lower lines. Your subject could be at either of the four intersections or on any of the lines, either horizontal or vertical. 

Leading Lines:

Leading Lines image by Thomas Leuthard - Street Photography

In this image by Thomas Leuthard, our view is drawn into the image by the converging lines from foreground to the subject. This technique can be very powerful and creat strong images that seem to grab our attention. They rely on minimising distracting parts of the scene, either by creative use of lighting or by changing our point of view when shooting the image. We can also selectively crop an image later in editing or make use of a vignette to achieve a similar effect.

Balance:

Ingleton Waterfalls Walk Copyright © Steven Dale 2023

Balance in an image is a very personal thing. The subject may be very simple (such as an apple on a table with no other elements in the scene) or just  feel balanced because each of the seperate elements in the scene just work well together. Personally (I am biased of course!) I feel the image above is an example of the latter. The key is to experiment as always, trying different viewpoints, lenses, times of day and even switching from colout to balck and white.

Simplicity:

Foxglove  - Copyright © Steven Dale 2023

Simplicity in an image means that there is really only one key element. In the case above it is the flower that is the key element. It could be a face, a still life, part of a landscape, a building. As always, what makes a truly simple image is personal to the viewer and they may not always agree with the photographer! That is what makes photography so interesting.

Depth:

Example of depth in an image - Copyright © Steven Dale 2023

Depth in an image traditionally means there are elements in the foreground, mid-ground and distance. This creates depth in an image, even though in reality we are looking at flat image. It's not 3-D after all! Usually this will require a wide-angle lens though the use of image stacking can achieve images that are sharp throughout. This is a difficult technique to master and requires time to perfect so is not suitable for every occassion. In most case the use of a wide-angle lens (between 24mm and 35mm will suffice in most conditions) and getting a bit closer to the ground will be best in most situations. A tripod may be needed depending on lighting conditions and the technology within your camera. Check out this article on the Imaging Resource website.

Contrast:

Contrast using colour in an image - Copyright © Steven Dale 2023

Contrast in an image can be achieved in several ways. You can use texture, colour (or monochrome), lighting or a combination to achieve contrast. In the image above I used colour and the contrast between the barrels and the plastic trays. Also, I used the contrast between the horizontal lines on the barrels and the vertical coloured lines of the trays to create further interest. This image was taken on a canal walk and these were outside a small brewery that was located by the canal. Always carry a camera of some sort as you never know when you might come across such opportunities. In this case I used my iPhone.

So, hopefully you have found this article helpful and I will add more posts in the near future on the subject of photography and techniques that you might find useful especially is you are starting out or looking to improve.

Shooting in Raw: Benefits and Techniques for Professional Photographers

Why you should shoot in RAW (most of the time)

Pin Mill Boatyard - Copyright © Steven Dale 2023

Shooting in RAW has several benefits for professional photographers and enthusiasts, including: 

1. Increased Dynamic Range: RAW photos contain more detail in both highlights and shadows compared to JPEG images.
2. Non-Destructive Editing: RAW images retain all of the original data and can be edited multiple times without losing quality.
3. Greater Control: Shooting in RAW gives you more control over exposure, white balance, and other settings, allowing for greater creative control in post-processing.
4. Larger File Size: RAW photos have larger file sizes compared to JPEGs, allowing for more detail and flexibility when editing.
5. Ability to Correct Errors: RAW photos can be used to recover lost detail or correct exposure and white balance errors that may have occurred during shooting.
6. Archival Quality: RAW photos have a higher bit depth than JPEGs, making them more suitable for long-term storage and archiving.

Let's look at each of these in turn: 

Increased dynamic range:

Dynamic range in photography refers to the range of brightness levels that a camera can capture in a single image. It is the difference between the darkest and lightest parts of a scene that can be recorded and represented in an image. A camera with a high dynamic range is able to capture a greater range of brightness levels, allowing for more detail and more accurate representation of the scene. This is particularly important in high-contrast scenes, such as those with bright sun and deep shadows, as it allows the photographer to capture detail in both the highlights and shadows without losing detail in one or the other.

When shooting in JPEG format, the camera's internal software compresses the image and reduces the dynamic range to fit within the limited 8-bit color space of the JPEG format. On the other hand, when shooting in RAW format, the camera captures all of the original data without compressing or reducing the dynamic range, providing more flexibility and control during post-processing.

Non-destructive editing:

Non-destructive editing is a method of image editing where the original image file remains unaltered and the edits are stored separately in a separate file or in a database. This allows for editing to be performed multiple times on the same image without the risk of degrading the quality of the original image.

In non-destructive editing, the original image remains unchanged and is used as a reference for all subsequent edits. The edits are stored in a separate layer or as a set of instructions that can be adjusted, modified or undone at any time. This provides greater flexibility and control over the editing process and allows for unlimited experimentation without affecting the original image.

Common tools used for non-destructive editing include layers, masks, and adjustment layers in image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and others. With non-destructive editing, photographers and image editors can make changes to images with confidence, knowing that they can always go back to the original image if necessary.

Greater control:

Shooting in RAW format provides greater control over the final image by allowing the photographer to make adjustments to the image during post-processing. The RAW format captures all of the original data from the camera's sensor without compressing it, providing a higher level of detail and a greater range of settings that can be adjusted.

When shooting in JPEG, the camera's internal software automatically processes the image and makes decisions about things like exposure, white balance, and color correction. These decisions can be difficult to change after the fact, as the original data has been lost. However, when shooting in RAW, all of this information is retained, allowing for greater control over the final image.

During post-processing, photographers can make adjustments to exposure, white balance, color correction, sharpness, and other settings to improve the final image. This provides a level of control that is not possible when shooting in JPEG, as the original data is preserved and can be adjusted multiple times without losing quality. Additionally, shooting in RAW allows for greater creative control, as the photographer can make more nuanced adjustments to the image to produce the desired final result.

Larger file size:

The larger file size of RAW images provides several benefits for photographers, including:

1. Increased Detail: Larger file sizes allow for more detail to be captured and stored in the image. This is particularly important in high-resolution images, where a larger file size can help to retain more detail and prevent image degradation during post-processing.
2. Greater Flexibility: With more detail in the image, there is more room for adjustment during post-processing. This allows for more flexibility in fine-tuning exposure, white balance, and other settings to produce the desired final result.
3. Improved Editing Capabilities: Larger file sizes provide more data for image editing software to work with, which can improve the quality of the final image and make post-processing tasks such as noise reduction and color correction more effective.
4. Better Printing Quality: Larger file sizes can lead to improved printing quality, as the printer has more data to work with to produce a high-quality print.
5. Archival Quality: Larger file sizes also provide greater archival quality, as the image has a higher bit depth and more data, which can help to prevent loss of detail and quality over time.
6. Overall, the larger file size of RAW images provides photographers with more options and greater control during post-processing, leading to improved final results and a more versatile image.

Ability to correct errors:

RAW images can help correct errors in several ways:

1. Exposure Correction: RAW images capture all of the data from the camera's sensor, including information about exposure. This allows for greater flexibility in adjusting the exposure during post-processing, helping to correct any under- or over-exposed areas in the image.
2. White Balance Correction: RAW images retain the original white balance information, which can be adjusted during post-processing to correct any color cast that may have been introduced during shooting.
3. Color Correction: RAW images provide greater control over color correction during post-processing, allowing for adjustments to be made to specific colors in the image to achieve the desired final result.
4. Sharpness Correction: RAW images provide more detail and sharpness than JPEG images, and the extra information in the RAW file can be used to make adjustments to the sharpness during post-processing.
5. Noise Reduction: RAW images often contain more noise than JPEG images, but the extra detail in the RAW file can be used during post-processing to reduce the appearance of noise and improve the final image.
6. By retaining all of the original data from the camera's sensor, RAW images provide a greater level of control during post-processing, allowing photographers to correct errors and fine-tune the final image to achieve the desired result.

Archival quality:

1. Archival quality refers to the ability of an image to retain its quality over time. RAW images have a higher archival quality than JPEG images because of their larger file size and the fact that they retain all of the original data from the camera's sensor.
2. Larger File Size: RAW images have a larger file size than JPEG images, which means they contain more information and detail. This increased detail can help to prevent degradation of the image over time, leading to a higher archival quality.
3. More Data: RAW images retain all of the original data from the camera's sensor, including information about exposure, white balance, and color correction. This information is preserved in the RAW file, providing a greater level of detail and preventing loss of quality over time.
4. Better Bit Depth: RAW images typically have a higher bit depth than JPEG images, which means they contain more information about the color and tone of the image. This increased information can help to prevent loss of detail and degradation of the image over time.
5. Non-Destructive Editing: RAW images can be edited using non-destructive editing techniques, which means that the original image remains unchanged and all edits are stored in a separate layer or database. This allows for unlimited experimentation without affecting the original image, leading to a higher level of archival quality.
6. Overall, the larger file size, more data, higher bit depth, and non-destructive editing capabilities of RAW images provide a higher level of archival quality, ensuring that the image will retain its quality over time.

Some camera manufactuers provide free software for editing RAW images with their cameras. Indeed some cameras have the ability to save both a RAW and a JPEG version of any photo you take, usually when you have two card slots available. 

You can also use mainstream photo-editing software such as Photoshop, Lightroom, Capture One, Affinity Photo and ON1 Photo RAW.

However, there are some better alternatives out there that are free. These include:

1. Rawtherapee: An open-source, cross-platform RAW image processing software that offers a range of features and tools for editing and processing RAW images.
2. Darktable: A free and open-source RAW image editor that provides a wide range of editing tools and features, including support for tethering and tethered shooting.
3. Rawdigger: A free and simple RAW image viewer and editor that is designed specifically for examining and processing RAW images.
4. Lightzone: A free, open-source, and non-destructive photo editor that provides advanced tools and features for editing and processing RAW images.
5. Rawstudio: A free and open-source RAW image editor that offers a range of tools and features for processing and editing RAW images, including support for tethered shooting and image batch processing.

These are just a few of the many free RAW editors available, and each one offers a unique set of features and tools to help you edit and process your RAW images.

In the future I intend to post a review of the free alternative RAW editors. Watch thsi space and thank you for reading this post.