#medium telephoto

[shutterfox5555]

Bronica ETRS with Zenzanon 250mm f5.6 lens, taken on Ilford HP5 and developed with Rodinal

[swinging-from-my-cable]

I guess I have to actually go to a physical store to find fucking luster paper. Everything at B&H is just too expensive, I'm not an actual pro. Trying through Amazon is a nightmare. I want a luster (or at least a semi-gloss, yes they feel different to me), not the cheap-ass glossy crap.

Sorry that I took a single photo class, so now I have just enough knowledge to be an ass with minimal actual knowledge.

[howlsofbloodhounds]

Because I had headcanon that Color is Autistic and has developed special interests in things such as photography, travel, maybe even things like social advocacy.

Maybe even philosophy and psychology. For now, in this posts, I’ll focus on the big two: photography and traveling. (I will also touch on how Color’s physical disability, chronic fatigue, his autism, and perhaps his ptsd/ separation anxiety from Killer also effect his ability to engage in his interests in another post.)

I think he’d develop some decent if not above average technical knowledge, such as camera types and functions. Detailed understanding of different types of cameras (DSLR, mirrorless, point-and-shoot, medium format, etc.) and their specific functions.

Knowledge about various lenses (prime, zoom, wide-angle, telephoto, macro) and their applications. Mastery of camera settings like ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and how to manipulate them for different lighting conditions and artistic effects.

In-depth understanding of how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO interact to create a properly exposed photograph. Proficiency in using software like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, or other photo editing tools for post-processing and enhancing images.

He’d learn about artistic elements such as composition techniques, lighten and color theory. Develop a familiarity with compositional rules like the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, symmetry, and how to creatively break these rules.

Knowledge about natural and artificial lighting, how to use light to create mood and depth, and techniques like backlighting, side lighting, and using reflectors. Understanding of how colors interact, complementary colors, and how to use color to convey emotion and direct viewer attention.

Awareness of different photography styles (portrait, landscape, macro, street, documentary, astrophotography, etc.) and genres, and what makes each unique.

Knowledge about influential photographers and their work, such as Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Annie Leibovitz, and contemporary photographers.

Understanding the evolution of photography, from daguerreotypes to digital photography, and significant milestones in the field. Awareness of current trends in photography, popular styles, and emerging technologies.

And, of course, he’d develop and grow practical experiences and hands on practice. Experience with on-location shoots, managing different weather conditions, and adapting to various shooting environments.

Knowledge about how to properly maintain and clean camera equipment to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Skills in troubleshooting common issues like lens flare, sensor dust, or focus problems.

He’d have a deep enthusiasm for specific techniques or subjects he enjoys photographing, whichever or whatever you all think those could be exactly.

Likely to have personal photography projects, well-organized portfolios, and possibly an online presence showcasing their work. Extensive collection of books, articles, videos, and tutorials related to photography.

A special interest in traveling, in addition to photography, would manifest in the character in several ways, showcasing their passion and extensive knowledge about various aspects of travel. Here are some specific aspects:

For his interest in travel, he’d be very well versed in the planning and research process. Color might create comprehensive travel itineraries, meticulously planning each day's activities, routes, and schedules.

He might gradually develop an extensive knowledge about various travel destinations, including historical sites, natural landmarks, cultural attractions, and lesser-known gems.

He’d display a proficiency in booking flights, accommodations, and transportation, as well as understanding visa requirements, travel insurance, and local regulations.

An expertise in packing efficiently, knowing what to bring for different climates and activities, and how to pack photography gear safely for travel. Color is likely to show a very deep and profound appreciation for different cultures, learning basic phrases or even fluency in multiple languages to better communicate while traveling.

He’d definitely show a deep interest in trying and understanding local cuisines, knowing popular dishes, and even recipes from various regions. He’d have at least some knowledge about local customs, traditions, festivals, and etiquette to respect and immerse themselves in different cultures.

He’d certainly develop some geographical and historical knowledge, with a detailed understanding of world geography, maps, and the ability to navigate using traditional maps as well as digital tools.

Knowledge about the history of the places he visits, including significant events, historical figures, and the cultural evolution of the region.

He might maintain detailed travel logs or journals documenting his experiences, including photos, notes, and personal reflections. He’d definitely collect souvenirs, postcards, or other memorabilia from his travels; often gifting them to beloved friends.

He’d probably engage with travel communities, forums, and social media groups to share experiences and gain insights.

This special interest would possibly lead to him gaining a lot of practical skills, such as in budget management. Expertise in budgeting for travel, finding deals, and managing expenses effectively.

He might display an ability to adapt to different environments, handle unexpected situations, and problem-solve while on the go.

Although it’d probably be harder for him than most, particularly if he has a harder time handling and dealing with change—especially if the change is unexpected and unplanned.

Knowledge about staying healthy while traveling, such as understanding local healthcare options, vaccinations, and travel safety tips.

He’d like combine both interests by using his photography skills to capture stunning images of the places he visits, creating travel blogs or photo albums to document his journeys.

He might create photo essays or visual stories that capture the essence of the cultures and places he explores. Share his travel experiences and recommendations with others, possibly through writing travel guides, blogs, or social media content.

All this is to say that Killer would definitely encourage Color to come with him to explore abandoned places and ghost towns, and Color’s going to be so overjoyed he starts hand flapping. He’s going to take so many pictures, he’s going to remember it forever.

[brickcentral]

📖TIPS: Framing Camera Shots - Overview

When it comes to photography, there are a variety of shots a photographer can take that help you tell a story for your viewer. Many of the terms I’ll be using this month originate in film-making, which I learned in various courses in art school like storyboarding and film history, and are equally relevant to toy photography.

A CAMERA SHOT size refers to what elements are included in your photo within the outside edge (called the FRAME) of your photo. It can also refer to the purpose of the photo. 

Some of the most common framing camera shots are:

Extreme Wide Shot

Wide Shot

Full Shot

Medium Wide Shot

Medium Shot

Medium Close Up

Close Up

Extreme Close Up

Some camera shots that refer to the purpose used:

Establishing Shot

Detail Shot

Reaction shot

POV Shot

…And many more!

The use of multiple of these different shots for your photography will create variety and interest between photos. It's also great for maximizing the photography you can create with one set/build. Personally, I find that by shooting both wider and up close, I save time by setting up a scene once and getting multiple shots out of it.

This month’s tips will touch on subjects from previous Tips. In 2020, foolishbricks (IG) did a brief overview of some of the different camera shots in his 📖TIPS: Anatomy of an Image, and nocturnelle9 (IG) had tips on camera lenses and focal lengths in her 📖TIPS: Wide angle vs Telephoto. In 2022 @minifiglifescenes wrote a series on camera angles in 📖TIPS: Using Camera Angles.

I’ll return next week to go over Wide Shots. Thanks for reading!

~@glowingbrickette, Moderator

>Overview Wide Shot Full and Medium Shots Close Up Shot

[runwayrunway]

No. 43 - Porter Airlines

I consider myself very lucky to live near enough to an airport, located directly beneath one of the main departure paths, that I can regularly see airplanes flying overhead on their way off to wherever. Depending on the plane, they can pass over my house as low as 3,000 feet! ...which is still way too high for my phone's camera! So while I can see the plane decently, even make out details of the livery, what my camera sees is...this.

Okay, so my planespotting hobby mostly consists of literally spotting them (I am very good at this part! It's the photography that I struggle with!) because I'm unable to shell out for a telephoto lens, but thanks to the magic of flight tracking software I'm able to identify the exact airplane that this is, rather than being forced to base my review off this crunchy "photograph".

So, I'd like to introduce you all to our subject for today, C-GLQR! And, by extension, Porter Airlines - requested by @fungaloids, plus an anon.

First flown in February of 2009 and delivered in December of the same year, C-GLQR has served her entire fourteen-year career with Porter Airlines. She's actually only slightly younger than the airline itself. Porter was founded in 2006, featuring executives who formerly served in similarly high positions in Canadian regional airlines Air Ontario and Canada 3000, American Airlines, and...apparently the former US ambassador to Canada for some reason. They're about as large as you can get while still more or less being a regional airline, and they fly a fleet I'd call medium-sized of Embraer E195-E2 jets and an even larger number of Bombardier Dash 8-Q400 turboprop planes, like the pictured C-GLQR, out of their hub in Toronto.

One interesting thing about Porter (inconsistently stylized as lowercase-p porter, but it lacks the clear intent of something like condor so I'm not going as far as to write it that way myself) is said hub. See, when I say Toronto, you probably think of the worst airport in the entire world, Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Airport. Thankfully for Porter's customers they do not have to go to the labyrinth of human misery which is Toronto Pearson, and are instead corralled into Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, colloquially known as Toronto Island Airport, potentially because it's changed its name twice and the local population got sick of remembering what it's calling itself now.

image: DXR

The 'island' designator is quite literal. This is a teeny tiny airport, just barely large enough to land the Q400 and definitely too small to land jets. The fact that Porter flies to Chicago-Midway, Washington-Dulles, and Boston-Logan is a testament to the Q400's absolutely wild range rather than an indication that this tiny scrap of land is in any meaningful way an international airport. It has two runways and both are shorter than the ones at the smallest airport I've ever flown into that had an actual terminal, Vieques. I'm surprised they can operate a Q400 there. In fact, they can't - they had to pick a seat configuration smaller than the standard in order to be able to use the runways at Billy Bishop. (Incidentally, this means their seats have a more generous pitch, so I suppose that's a point for them.)

So why would they want to put the biggest passenger turboprop in service in the West onto this tiny airstrip? Well, Porter's...reason for existing, so it seems, is to force the Toronto Port Authority to expand the airport and build a bridge to the mainland despite the fact that nobody who lives in the area wants this. Hilariously, they have been entirely unsuccessful in this venture and now operate a second hub in Pearson. That's where they put the jets - after all, if you tried to land an E195-E2 at Toronto Island you would have a very wet plane and some very mad passengers on your hands very quickly.

I mean, to be fair, getting to not go to Pearson is a selling point.

I don't have any other place to put this but they have an adorable raccoon mascot named Mr. Porter. I'm not sure why a raccoon, but I like him. He doesn't appear on the livery at all - heaven forbid we do something interesting - but he's there and he's cute. I do have to point out, though, that this is one of the worst names for SEO I've seen in a while, given Mr. Porter is the name of the men's department of extremely popular luxury fashion outlet shop Net-a-Porter.

I think raccoons could be a pretty nice source of inspiration for a livery, what with their colorblocking and stripes. You could even make the planes' engine cowlings look like weirdly human little hands. I would hate that, but I would respect it! Instead Porter has taken the approach of making the plane mostly white. Revolutionary for sure.

I'll begin with the good and say that I really like this grey underside with its little outlines - I think this is an absolutely brilliant design for the Dash 8. Unlike the ATR series, which I've talked about a fair few times before on this blog, the Q400 is about as angular as a plane can get. I've never touched on that shape before, but I've discussed how carriers, though I'm sure it's by accident and they never consider this, work with the shape of the ATR to good effect. The curvaceousness of the ventral fairing on the ATR is complemented by long swoops like the ones used by Azul, IndiGo, and Air Astra. The Q400, in contrast, stores its landing gear in the engine cowlings, allowing for a very flat belly and uninterrupted fuselage that looks best with sharp long lines and blocky geometric shapes. If this livery had any other details, this would be such a nice touch - they even hammer the point in with the same design on the bottom of the cowlings.

Unfortunately, it's so light-colored that it's difficult to notice. You could mistake it for shadows settling on natural grooves in the airframe if you didn't know what the bottom of a Q400 is supposed to look like, and it isn't as if you can see it when the plane is parked.

You may well not see the wordmark, either. While the sans-serif font chosen is almost gratingly boring it is at least not hideous, but it's located in such an out-of-the-way location it almost feels like they're ashamed of it. It's so needlessly far back and low-sitting that the wing blocks it from half the possible angles, and it's not like it's accentuated in any way. You could so easily miss it. This wordmark is honestly Lufthansa-tier.

Another thing I don't like is the use of the tail. It's blocked out very Detached Tail Syndrome style, refusing to engage with the large block leading from it to the fuselage. I would understand, though not approve, if this was because they didn't want to redesign the balance of the tail when applying the livery to a new style of plane, but the Q400 is what they started with! The livery was designed for this plane and it seems to want you to just not notice this significant chunk of fuselage! It makes the whole airframe look so desolate and empty. The kindest thing I can say for it is that it looks lazy, but really it looks more unfinished. I just struggle to understand why these choices were made, in all honesty. Surely this isn't the best you can do.

Right, right, okay. There's something I've been dancing around on purpose and I think it's obvious what it is. I just wanted to get in an entire review first because there's sort of no going back once I've mentioned it. Everything I said before, while very important, is subordinate to this one...utterly perplexing choice which turns failure to infamy.

PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER PORTER

Grade: Z-

[michaelwriston]

Hey Micheal what camera would you reccomend to some one starting out taking photos & what’s your set up?

Hey!

I'm a firm believer in buying an inexpensive DSLR or mirrorless setup with interchangeable lenses. You don't have to break the bank on a starter setup — just focus on buying a camera with a robust selection of first- and third-party lenses.

My usual advice is to start simple and only upgrade gear once you run into a physical or technical limitation that stops you from realizing your vision. For example, if you're not getting the shallow depth of field you want with your current lens and body, then maybe it's time to consider buying a lens with a larger maximum aperture (e.g., f/1.8 or f/1.4).

I started out with a Nikon D50 and a Nikkor 50mm f/1.8. That served me well for nearly five years, before I started running into technical limitations with the sensor that made shooting night photos difficult. That's when I switched to shooting medium format film for a spell, before ultimately settling on a full-frame Canon digital body. All-in-all, that experimentation period took about 17 years (I'm still not done).

That said, shop used for your first camera. Places like KEH or MPB have a great selection of tested and used gear. I personally shop from MPB. Here are a few great beginner full-frame camera bodies. I'll break out lenses later on in this post.

Why full frame? I think you get superior image quality, better depth of field, better image resolution for printing, and phenomenal dynamic range.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III ($714)

Nikon D750 ($774)

Canon 6D Mark II ($884)

Nikon D810 ($819)

Anyone of these are going to get the job done and then some.

The world of lenses is complicated and varied. You'll have “prime purists” that will tell you to eschew zoom lenses and only shoot prime (a lens with no zoom capabilities). You'll have people that say longer telephotos are all you need. The truth is, you'll find your niche the more you shoot. I prefer prime lenses for their simplicity (and the less I have to think about, the better).

I'll break these out by purpose.

Portraiture

Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 ($259)

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 ($134)

Nikkor 85mm f/1.8 ($184)

Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 ($78)

Landscapes

Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS ($294)

Nikkor AF 24mm f/2.8 ($134)

Multipurpose

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-f/5.6 IS STM ($54)

Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ($73)

I could go on and on, but this is enough to get you a start in the right direction.

If I were to put together a beginner kit with the above options, I would snatch up the Canon 5D Mark III with the Canon 50mm f/1.8 and the Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 IS. Total cost before taxes and shipping would be $1,142. You would have an incredibly flexible kit that lends itself to portraiture, landscapes, and street work, all for the same price as a new “prosumer” kit with only one lens from Amazon or other big box stores. If you don't know which direction you want to go, or you want to save on cost, there's nothing wrong with swapping out the two primes and grabbing the 18-55mm kit lens for next to nothing. That will at least let you dabble with different focal lengths and see what suits you.

I'm happy to answer any other questions here!

P.S. I shoot with a Canon EOS 6D Mark I and usually have a Sigma 35mm f/1.4 lens mounted on it for street portrait/street landscape work. My other carry-around camera is a Ricoh GR III.

[tenderlysharpmidain]

THoor

A woman with an ethereal and otherworldly presence, reminiscent of the paintings by Wojciech Siudmak, is depicted in a photorealistic style. She possesses an air of mystery and intrigue, with her eyes captivating the viewer with their intensity. Her features are delicately rendered, emphasizing her unique beauty. The lighting in the scene is soft and diffused, casting gentle shadows that add depth to the image. The woman's pose and expression convey a sense of introspection and contemplation. The background complements her enigmatic nature, with dreamlike elements or surreal landscapes inspired by Siudmak's art. The image should be a photograph captured with a medium telephoto lens, focusing on the woman's face and capturing the intricate details of her features.

midjourney

[iso3200net]

Flowery bokeh

I got up early in the morning and went to my vineyard, I've been working with my father. Starting early meant we finished early, so I had some free time to play around with my camera.

Here, Zinnia flowers in my mom's garden. July 2023.

Taken with Canon EOS 5D Mark II digital camera, with adapted Mamiya‍-‍Sekor C 150mm F4 telephoto medium format lens. This lens is SHARP! Crop to 16:9, levels, and that's it.

[purcellpictures]

Lenses/Techniques for Photographing People

What type of lenses are best for photographing people? There is no easy answer to that. An ideal focal length for portraits is about 85mm, but the results will be pleasing anywhere within a range of 70-105mm. These focal lengths are ideal for head and/or head and shoulder shots. A wide angle lens such as a 35mm will create some facial distortion at close range, but can be very useful to show a person in juxtaposition with his environment or surroundings. Fortune magazine uses this approach in many instances to photograph executives, placing their manufacturing facilities in the background. The rule is to use a wide angle lens to include both the subject and the background. Use a relatively small aperture to keep everything in the picture sharp, and do not include a confusing or complex background in this type of picture.

Another technique is the indirect approach, or “candid” people photography. Most photographers automatically think of the telephoto lens in connection with candid pictures of people, but the wide angle can also be successfully utilized for this type of shooting. Cartier-Bresson was probably the best know user of the wide angle, one body and one lens approach to people photography; his results speak for themselves. The wide angle lenses used with iPhones and Android cameras are almost perfect for candid people photography as well.

I prefer to use a 35mm lens on a camera set to automatic exposure, and preset the focus for about five feet. I put the camera around my neck on a short strap so it rests directly on my chest, and I start out to take pictures. The best place to work is in a crowded area that is teeming with people. Marketplaces and street fairs are ideal. When you see an interesting person approaching, bring the viewfinder quietly up to your eye and shoot. However if you want to be less obtrusive, just face the oncoming person, aim and trip the shutter without lifting the camera. A wireless remote makes this technique even easier. The framing may not be perfect. But even that effect may give your picture the quality of “candid chic” that is currently in vogue, The inherent depth of field in a wide angle lens will take care of any error you might make in estimating the distance.

A telephoto lens has obvious advantages, but my favorite lens for people pictures is the 80-200mm zoom. There are many brands in this zoom range, and sharpness and resolution have vastly improved over the last 10 years or so. Such a lens allows you to stand in place and focus, zoom and frame without moving or being obtrusive. At the 200mm zoom setting I can often get a tight head shot without the subject’s ever being aware that his picture was taken.

One final observation about lenses for people and depth of field. In photographing a person, it is often desirable to concentrate the viewers attention on the face and eliminate other distracting elements in the picture. This can be done by focusing sharply on the face and using a wide aperture on the lens. The background will be nicely thrown out of focus so that the eye of the viewer is drawn only to the face. This works best with a normal lens (50mm) or a medium telephoto (85mm). It important to note that the same principle applies to all lenses.

[gadgetzview]

Motorola Edge 50 Fusion vs. Lava Agni 3 5G: An In-Depth Comparison

With new smartphones hitting the market, tech enthusiasts and casual users alike are always on the lookout for devices that offer high performance, standout design, and value. Today, we’ll dive into two recent releases: the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion and the Lava Agni 3 5G. Released in October 2024, both models promise powerful features, from top-tier display quality to excellent processing power. Let's compare these two devices across their design, display, performance, camera capabilities, and other essential aspects.

Design and Build

Motorola Edge 50 Fusion has a sleek profile, measuring 7.8 mm thick and weighing 174.9 g. It’s available in vibrant colors like Forest Blue, Marshmallow Blue, and Hot Pink, which give it a modern appeal. It boasts IP68 water and dust resistance, making it a reliable choice for everyday use in different conditions.

Lava Agni 3 5G, on the other hand, is slightly bulkier, weighing 212 g and measuring 8.8 mm thick. It also comes in premium finishes, namely Heather Glass and Pristine Glass, which are both elegant and durable. While it offers IP64 splash resistance, it’s slightly less durable against water and dust than the Motorola.

Verdict: If portability and durability are your top priorities, the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion edges out the Lava Agni 3 5G in this category.

Display Quality

The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion features a 6.67-inch pOLED screen with a 1080 x 2400 resolution and a 144 Hz refresh rate, offering smooth scrolling and high responsiveness. The screen delivers a peak brightness of 1600 nits, ensuring vibrant visuals and great visibility even in bright sunlight.

In comparison, the Lava Agni 3 5G has a slightly larger 6.78-inch AMOLED display with 1200 x 2652 resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate. With 1200 nits brightness, it’s also sharp and responsive, although the slightly lower refresh rate might be noticeable to avid gamers.

Verdict: Both displays are excellent, but the Motorola's higher refresh rate and peak brightness may appeal more to users seeking enhanced smoothness and visual quality.

Performance and Software

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor, the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion delivers a 2.4 GHz octa-core experience, ideal for multitasking and medium-to-high-level gaming. Paired with 8GB of RAM and an Adreno 710 GPU, it handles graphics-intensive apps with ease. It runs on Android 14 with Motorola's custom Hello UI.

The Lava Agni 3 5G uses the MediaTek Dimensity 7300X chipset, a 2.5 GHz octa-core processor that also supports smooth multitasking and demanding apps. It includes 8GB of RAM and a Mali-G615 MC2 GPU, delivering a bit more power for gaming. Also running Android 14 with Hello UI, the Lava Agni 3 5G is well-suited for users needing reliable performance in various settings.

Verdict: For general performance and gaming, the Lava Agni 3 5G may have a slight edge due to its processor, although both devices offer competitive experiences.

Camera Capabilities

When it comes to photography, Motorola Edge 50 Fusion sports a dual rear camera setup, featuring a 50MP wide-angle camera and a 13MP ultra-wide camera, along with 4K video recording. The 32MP front camera ensures clear selfies and sharp video calls, making this a well-rounded camera setup for versatile photography.

Lava Agni 3 5G, in contrast, steps up with a triple rear camera system comprising a 50MP primary sensor, an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. It also supports 4K recording, while its 16MP front camera handles selfies. This setup is especially suitable for users who enjoy zoom capabilities and diverse camera functions.

Verdict: The Lava Agni 3 5G takes the lead here with its more comprehensive triple camera array and telephoto zoom capability, giving photographers more options to explore.

Battery and Charging

Both devices come equipped with 5000mAh batteries, ideal for extended usage without frequent recharges. The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion supports 68W TurboPower charging, which provides faster top-ups and includes a reverse charging option, making it useful for charging other devices on the go.

The Lava Agni 3 5G supports 66W fast charging, which is also efficient but lacks reverse charging. It’s a reliable battery setup for daily activities and prolonged usage.

Verdict: While both devices have comparable battery lives, Motorola’s reverse charging gives it an edge in versatility.

Connectivity and Other Features

The Motorola Edge 50 Fusion offers extensive 5G band support along with Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compatibility and Bluetooth v5.2. Additionally, it includes NFC and an in-display fingerprint sensor for added convenience and security.

Lava Agni 3 5G brings Wi-Fi 6e for faster wireless connectivity, Bluetooth v5.4, and GPS with NavIC support, which enhances its connectivity range in supported regions. However, it lacks NFC, which may be limiting for users who rely on contactless payments.

Verdict: While Lava Agni 3 5G’s Wi-Fi 6e is faster, Motorola's NFC support and versatile 5G connectivity may be more beneficial for everyday connectivity.

Conclusion

In the end, choosing between the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion and the Lava Agni 3 5G comes down to individual preferences and priorities:

Motorola Edge 50 Fusion: With its vibrant display, IP68 water and dust resistance, reliable Snapdragon processor, and reverse charging, this phone is well-suited for users prioritizing media consumption, aesthetics, and reliable battery features.

Lava Agni 3 5G: Its MediaTek Dimensity processor, robust triple camera setup, and Wi-Fi 6e support make it ideal for performance-oriented users who want a versatile camera experience and a bit more speed for gaming and connectivity.

Both smartphones offer impressive specs, so whether you’re leaning towards design and camera quality or performance and connectivity, these devices have something to suit your needs.

[shutterfox5555]

Bronica ETRS with Zenzanon 250mm f5.6 lens, shot on Kodak Portra 160

[gryphon1911]

Olympus Digital 14-54mm II f/2.8-3.5 Review

Background The first 4/3 DSLR I got, the E-300 came with a wide to medium telephoto lens, the 14-45mm. Optically, this is an excellent kit zoom lens, but not very fast in the aperture range. In an attempt to get better image quality from the E-300 in lower light, I went looking for a faster zoom. Found it in the Olympus 14-54mm f/2.8-3.5 I just had to give this a try and see how good a more…

[newbrain55]

The Art of Photography: Capturing Moments that Last a Lifetime

Photography is more than just taking pictures; it's about capturing moments that tell a story. Whether you're a professional photographer or an enthusiast, understanding the fundamentals of photography can help you create stunning images that resonate with viewers.

Understanding the Basics of Photography

Photography is built on three core elements: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. These components work together to create the perfect exposure, which is the foundation of a great photograph.

Aperture: This controls the depth of field in your photos. A wide aperture (low f-stop number) results in a shallow depth of field, making your subject stand out against a blurred background. A narrow aperture (high f-stop number) keeps more of the scene in focus.

Shutter Speed: This determines how long your camera's sensor is exposed to light. A fast shutter speed freezes motion, while a slow shutter speed can create motion blur, adding a sense of movement to your images.

ISO: This measures the sensitivity of your camera's sensor to light. A low ISO setting produces a cleaner image with less noise, while a high ISO setting can help in low-light situations but may introduce graininess.

Mastering Composition Techniques

Composition is the art of arranging elements within a frame. Good composition draws the viewer's eye to the most important parts of the image.

Rule of Thirds: Divide your frame into nine equal parts using two horizontal and two vertical lines. Position your subject along these lines or at their intersections to create a balanced and visually appealing photo.

Leading Lines: Use natural lines in the environment, like roads or rivers, to guide the viewer’s eye through the photo and toward the main subject.

Symmetry and Patterns: Symmetry can create a sense of harmony, while patterns add interest. Break the pattern with your subject to draw attention.

Lighting: The Key to Great Photography

Lighting can make or break a photograph. Understanding how to use light effectively is crucial for creating mood and depth.

Natural Light: The golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides soft, warm light that’s ideal for photography. Overcast days offer diffused light, reducing harsh shadows and making it easier to capture balanced images.

Artificial Light: When natural light isn’t available, artificial light sources like lamps or flash can be used. Position your light source to create the desired effect, whether it’s a soft glow or dramatic shadows.

Post-Processing: Enhancing Your Photos

Post-processing is an essential step in digital photography. It allows you to refine your images and bring your creative vision to life.

Cropping and Straightening: Adjust the composition by cropping unnecessary elements and straightening the horizon.

Color Correction: Adjust the white balance, contrast, and saturation to achieve natural or creatively enhanced colors.

Sharpening and Noise Reduction: Enhance details and reduce noise to improve image quality, especially in high ISO shots.

Choosing the Right Equipment

While skill and creativity are more important than gear, the right equipment can help you achieve your desired results.

Camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera offers manual control over exposure settings, allowing you to fine-tune your shots.

Lenses: Different lenses serve different purposes. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is ideal for wildlife or sports photography.

Tripod: A sturdy tripod helps stabilize your camera for long exposures and is essential for landscape and night photography.

Conclusion: The Journey of a Photographer

Photography is a journey of continuous learning and experimentation. By mastering the basics and exploring new techniques, you can develop your unique style and capture images that speak to the heart. Whether you're capturing a fleeting moment or creating a work of art, photography is a powerful medium for expression and storytelling

[ericduisme]

The Tools Behind Capturing Garden Narratives

For this photography project, I will use a Fujifilm XT30 II cropped camera and a standard 15-45mm zoom lens. The 15-45mm lens provides a flexible focal range, allowing me to switch freely between different scenes, from wide-angle to medium focal length, to capture the diverse design details and overall layout of Hamilton Gardens.

By using a wide-angle lens, I was able to capture the overall layout and design structure of the garden. The wide-angle lens allowed me to include more landscape elements in one frame. It was particularly suitable for photographing large ponds and winding paths in the Chinese Garden, showing its carefully designed sense of space and layering.

Of course, I also have a 55-250mm telephoto lens for some macro and detail photography, such as the photography style of Andrew Zuckerman mentioned in my previous post. Focusing on plants, animals or architectural details may give you different results.

I also used a tripod to ensure stability when shooting long exposures or when precise composition is required. This is especially important when shooting flowing water or compositions that require high symmetry. Handheld shooting alone cannot guarantee the perfection of the final photographic work.

Here are some of my personal photography works as well.

Please look forward to my next work. Thank you for your attention！！

[nikonstudio]

Prepping for Iceland, Greenland and more

Just a few more weeks to go before the trip commences, with most logistics pretty much settled. It will be a sea journey to them from the port of Amsterdam, right next to the central station, a one way travel that would get me pass the vast norwegian sea before veering downward to the Labrador sea for Boston.

One FX, one DX and one M43, with three lens combination - Ultra wide 10mm, medium 24-120mm and a telephoto 150-600mm. For computing, two tablets - Samsung Tab S9 and Apple iPad Pro 11 M4?

After all, it will be a 36-day journey total and the subject I hope to capture may be beyond the reach of my usual 200mm.

[ashleighclarkphotographyyeartwo]

Catch-Up Content Week 2 - Focal Length Comparison Video Notes

Focal Length, Max aperture, crop vs full frame, zoom vs prime, image quality, build quality, focus speed, etc. 

Focal Length - Longer focal lengths (telephoto lens), Medium focal length (normal lens), Shorter focal length (Wide angle length).

The shorter the focal length of the lens (the wider the lens) the smaller the projected image of the subject, A Wideangle lens can capture a bigger angle of the scene.

The longer the lens, the bigger the subject is projected onto the images.

16mm - Captures more of the view. 24mm, 28mm, 35mm

50mm - Standard eye view. 70mm

85mm - Telephoto lens. 135mm, 200mm, 400mm, 800mm 

Teleconverter increases the focal length of the image but also doubles the aperture which means you need a large amount of light to create a successful image using this.

Shorter focal lengths have a wider angle of view

Longer focal lengths like binoculars or telescopes