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What remains after the end… is the will to survive
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Canceling on a project a week before? Canceling on a project a week before?
Business

One of my clients referred me to her to friend to photograph her handmade bags. I am not a product photographer and really don’t have the proper experience nor the space to do this project. I have told her once I suggest her to find someone else for this shoot and she insisted. Probably cause she is paying nothing compared to what others cost. I gave her my initial price and says it was on the high end compared to others in the area which isn’t true!

She also really talked me down with my price and for that reason Ive limited the time and the final deliverables. Now that this shoot is a week away and we’ve been going back and forth on how to create her vision I really don’t want to work for her. She’s already been in a pain in the ass from the start and we haven’t ever started yet. I don’t have the motivation nor the mentally capacity to deal with this client.

She’s expecting work so much for so little. I know I’ve wasted her time and I don’t even feel bad for it she’s been a real pain. Is it bad to cancel?


Client wants viral post removed after agreeing to be shared online - need advice Client wants viral post removed after agreeing to be shared online - need advice
Business

I photographed a family session for this client, who signed a standard photography contract. The contract clearly gives me full, unrestricted rights to use and publish the photos and videos for promotional, advertising, and commercial purposes, unless the client provides written notice prior to the session. They never provided such notice. After the session, I posted a clip of them on your Instagram story two weeks ago without any objection from them. I also delivered their photos, and they did not respond or acknowledge them, nor did they reply to your request for a review.

The current issue began only after I posted a video that included footage from their session. The video does not identify them by name, tag them, or reveal the location - only their faces appear. This video went viral, 800,000 views combined on Instagram, which has helped my visibility, engagement, and business growth.

After seeing the viral success, the client messaged me claiming they did not consent to their child being filmed or posted, demanding the video be removed from all platforms.

Despite their complaint, I am fully protected by the signed contract, which clearly grants me usage rights and requires clients to communicate any privacy restrictions before the session - which they did not do. I have no legal obligation to take the video down. My only concern now is that they might leave a negative review, which carries weight in the photography industry, though I have documentation and a professional response ready if needed.

What would you do in this scenario?



Self-Promotion Sunday November 23, 2025 Self-Promotion Sunday November 23, 2025
Community

Have something you’ve worked on and want to share with the community? Here’s the place to do so!

Add a comment here to promote your stuff. Feel free to drop links to your recent YouTube videos, podcasts, photobooks, or whatever else it is you’ve created.


Full schedule of our weekly community threads:

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
52 Weeks Share Anything Goes Album Share & Feedback Edit My Raw Follow Friday Salty Saturday Self-Promotion Sunday

Cyber Week Sale: Subscribe to Bloomberg for just $139 your first year. Get the context behind every business story with news and analysis. Offer ends soon.



what should you put in a photography portfolio if applying to art school for photography? what should you put in a photography portfolio if applying to art school for photography?
Art

i’m not a photographer but a filmmaker. i’m making a short film about a kid applying to art school and trying to make his portfolio. i want the portfolio to make sense thematically while being good enough to realistically get him into RISD.

for reference, the story revolves around a high school senior trying to apply to photography school. he had kinda lost his passion for photography and the film is about him learning to live and to capture life in his photos.

pictures that are pretty important for the plot include a photoshoot with a beautiful girl(probably in a flower field or maybe in a forest? idk i need advice on this), hanging out in a diner, and driving around at night


I only took photos for the set I was paid for. Was that wrong? I only took photos for the set I was paid for. Was that wrong?
Business

Hey guys! I’ve been doing gig photography in my city for about a year now and recently started charging clients for photos. I took photos for a show last Thursday, I only took photos for the band that had paid me but now some of the other bands are reaching out asking if I’ve got photos of them. Should o have photographed their sets as well?


File Organization and Consolidation Question File Organization and Consolidation Question
Post Processing

I am sorry if this is asked all the time, but I couldn't find a clear answer.

I am trying to consolidate many many different folders of photos over the years into a proper file structure moving forward. So far I have found a lot of great suggestions for managing the photos once they are in a logical file structure, but I don't have that yet.

I have several duplicates in different folders and needs something to just re-organize them into a new folder structure for me (while removing duplicates - even just based on file name), so allow me to move forward with everything correctly.

Thanks in advance!


How to start a career as a sports photographer/videographer? How to start a career as a sports photographer/videographer?
Business

For those who work in the field, what would be the best way to get started?

I live in Vancouver BC for reference and passionate in sports and photography but never really had to chance to do sports photography as I wouldn't want to be the stranger who brings a big telephoto lens and starts taking photos of random athletes.

Equipment wise I already have a Nikon Z8 with 70-200 2.8 and 400 4.5 for my landscape and wildlife photography. I have some other cameras and lenses too.

My thought is to just start listing my services for free and build a portfolio that way, but are there lots of permits and licenses I need in order to shoot at high school or college games?

Also is sports videography a big thing nowadays? I'm more experienced in photography but happy to learn more about sports video if that's where the industry is headed.

I'm happy to put in the work for free at the beginning to gain some experience and also so that clients hopefully aren't too picky as I'm doing it for free.

Any advice would be appreciated!


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I just found out I’ve been shooting in JPEG for 5 years I just found out I’ve been shooting in JPEG for 5 years
Technique

Hey fellow photographers 💃🏼 I just found out after 5 years of doing photography I’ve only shot in JPEG and not RAW

For some explaining my first 2 years doing photography I worked one on one with a coach who taught me everything I know. He never once mentioned shooting in RAW. Everytime I saw videos of other photographers talking about shooting in RAW I just assumed they meant manual, which I do

I’m the type of photographer where I don’t know much about cameras (annoying I know) I just know how to change settings and basic things to get nice photos so I don’t really go to my camera setting unless it’s to change white balance or format my cards

Anywayssss today after scrolling upon a tik tok video of “how to change your camera settings to shoot in RAW” I found out my whole photography career I’ve only shot in jpeg

I have consistent bookings and have done hundreds of weddings and never received any bad feedback on any of my sessions, so I know I’m not a terrible photographer, but today made me feel like an absolute failure lol

Anyways do you guys have any feedback or advice on transitioning to shooting in RAW because this not so newbie photographer needs it 😂


Am I the only one dealing with "semantic saturation" when retouching (ie faces kinda stop making sense)? Am I the only one dealing with "semantic saturation" when retouching (ie faces kinda stop making sense)?
Post Processing

I've noticed this curious phenomenon when retouching photos, all the more since upgrading to a 100MP camera that gives me tons of workable detail.

I call it semantic saturation, referring to the phenomenon described in Ted Lasso, when you keep repeating a word and it seems to become pure sound with no meaning.

EDIT: I'd call it semantic saturation SATIATION [see EDIT 2 note], referring to the phenomenon where you keep repeating a word until it seems to become pure sound with no meaning. For the many fans, it's referenced in a Ted Lasso sketch. I could also call it tunnel vision.

Sometimes I open a client's select to touch up, and I think "Ok this one is easy, there's almost nothing to do". And then I start zooming in and out, and the more I work on certain details the more other areas seem to beg for intervention, too, and after 10 minutes it starts not making much sense anymore: I need to look away for a while and come back to appreciate the face as a whole again.

Anyone else?

EDIT: I clarified the Ted Lasso reference since for a few people that became the whole point.
EDIT 2: Thanks u/mf_dayruiner for pointing out the word is semantic satiation not saturation. So basically what I'm experiencing is an esthetic satiation!


Photographers: when did you finally ditch the stack of external SSDs and move to a NAS? Photographers: when did you finally ditch the stack of external SSDs and move to a NAS?
Technique

I’ve been shooting a ton lately (RAW + video), and my pile of external SSDs was getting out of control. Every project ended up on a different drive, backups were all over the place, and digging up old shoots turned into a mini-archaeological expedition.

A while back I finally set up a NAS(a dxp2800 model) and moved everything into one place. Centralizing storage + consistent backups has been a massive quality-of-life upgrade. Remote access during shoots has also been surprisingly useful.

Curious how other photographers are handling storage these days. Are you on a NAS? Direct-attach? Cloud? A mix of everything? What does your workflow look like, and what would you do differently if you were starting from scratch?



PSA: Bring a flash to any Christmas lights events PSA: Bring a flash to any Christmas lights events
Technique

Recently went to see some Christmas lights at the local zoo. They were incredible. I had my old but trusty A7III with a Tamron 28-210 lens and the tiny Godox IT30 Pro. I stopped down to F10 in Aperture priority mode and started shooting. Not only did I get tack sharp results due to the flash but my subjects were perfectly lit.
Shooting Christmas Lights with subjects in front of them requires a lot of dynamic range which even modern camera struggle with. So, adding a tiny flash to illuminate the subject really helps.

I kept the flash at -2ev to make sure it looked natural and not have any blown highlights.


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Is it worth buying a retouching course Is it worth buying a retouching course
Post Processing

Hi everyone,

I am a freelance food and product photographer and constantly working to improve the quality of my images and level of my work. One thing I do not know huge amount about is retouching. I know the basics and use photoshop to clean up images, make stop motion animations and for focus stacking but not much else.

I am wondering if it’s worth buying a course or better to be self taught or use free resources. There are obviously many courses but I am looking at ones that are geared towards food specifically like the Terra Gold Retouching Roadmap or Two Loves Studio Food Photography Retouching.

I would love some opinions on whether you have had courses and think they are worth it over just self teaching or free resources. I also wonder what you think an acceptable amount should be? The ones I am looking at are about $400 mark give or take.



Is AI changing your way of editing? Is AI changing your way of editing?
Technique

I was a professional retoucher for many many years. Now i'm on the Creative Directions side of the industry.

I was wondering, is the AI somehow affecting your workflow? Are the tools like Nano Banana changing the way you edit photos?

These tools are very nice, very fast but most of them require credits, are limited in resolution and give "random" results so yes, nice tools for art and visual experimentations but what about real world commercial or non commercial photography?

What is your take on this? Is your workflow changing?


Landscape shooters: when do you reach for ultra-wide vs telephoto? Landscape shooters: when do you reach for ultra-wide vs telephoto?
Technique

I’ve been experimenting a lot more with telephoto landscapes over the last two years, especially on sunrise missions when the light is dramatic and the atmosphere stacks nicely. It’s been making me think a lot about how different the same environment can feel depending on focal length.

So I wanted to ask: How do you decide when to go ultra-wide vs when to compress the scene with a longer lens?

Do you base it on depth and atmosphere, foreground structure, light direction, the mood you want, or just the lens you brought that day?

Genuinely curious how other landscape photographers approach these choices.


Family Photos Question Family Photos Question
Post Processing

Hi all,

Hoping some experts here can help us settle some questions we had from a family photo session. The photographer is a "full service" photographer; she makes wall sized portraits and prints etc in addition to taking pictures. We purchased a very expensive photo album and were supposed to receive the digital file copies of all the photos that were included in that album (she does not provide all the pictures as digitals, just the ones where you order some product from her).

She sent the photos, but the files are roughly 3-6Mb in size, and are in the range of 3-6 megapixels. She told us that we are viewing the jpegs which are compressed, but that if we open them in photoshop and/or apple photos they become the higher quality / large size pictures. We've done this on both apps, but they still show lower size/lower quality pictures. She told us the original pictures were ~60Mb each, and for example one picture we really like she's still showing 12.1 Mb but it opens as 1.2Mb for us. I attached a picture that she sent to prove it is 12.1 Mb, and two more pictures for what our same picture reader is showing.

Is there something I'm not understanding? Is it actually supposed to open as a bigger / higher quality file? I feel like my iphone is taking higher resolution pictures that what we are seeing here. I don't know if maybe she doesn't want the high resolution pictures to come to the clients, so we don't pay a smaller price to have costco etc. print them into wall sized portraits? I'm hoping it's just a misunderstanding, but I don't know much about compression (and reexpansion?) of files.

Any help is very much appreciated!


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Software to create custom photobook Software to create custom photobook
Technique

Hello, I've been looking for a software, webapp, with or without AI assistant that I can create a photobook. I'm not in US, so it preferrably would generate the book and I could send to a graphics in person to print.

My idea is NOT only a photo book, but I travelled with my mother this year for a few countries and I would like to create a book, adding captions, stories, together with photos. Most I've seen is pretty much photos with very few or no text at all. So is there a software, webapp, that I could do it?

Thanks in advance


What if Pokémon met Minecraft? 👀
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Has anyone gone back to DSLRs after using mirrorless? Has anyone gone back to DSLRs after using mirrorless?
Gear

I’m curious if anyone here has actually gone back after spending some time with mirrorless.

What made you return?

Do you find there’s something mirrorless still can’t quite replicate, or was it more about rediscovering the simplicity and reliability of older gear?

Would love to hear what motivated your switch and whether you’ve stayed with DSLRs for good or still bounce between both systems.



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Is the "benefit" of using AI in a photo something I just need to personally get over? Is the "benefit" of using AI in a photo something I just need to personally get over?
Post Processing

Backstory: Went to an annual lighting of Christmas lights and fireworks this evening. Set up my spot to get my shot hours before the fireworks display

The Problem: About 45 minutes before the fireworks, a father and his son got in front and to the right of my camera. Thousands of people in the streets, all of us rather tightly packed (yes, it can be a miserable experience but its what you have to put up with to get the shot). Unfortunately I could tell the kids head was going to show up at the bottom right of my photos. No, I didn't ask them to move. Nowhere for them to go even if i did and I love photography but wasn't on any kind of assignment. Just a guy who loves photojournalism and shooting events.

The solution? I use lightroom classic and I'll admit, its Remove tool is pretty good. I've been able to remove the annoying kids head from shots in a convincing way using the Remove Generative AI tool and it does make things look better.

Should I just get over this weird guilt I'm feeling about using an AI tool to remove the damn annoying kids head who showed up in most of my shots and just go with it? I tend to share my photos on Instagram and try to stay true to everything.

I should mention that I also shoot some concerts occasionally and if photos are noisy (I use a Nikon D500), I have no problems at all using the Denoise feature in LR which is also somehow done with AI, so maybe this is just a "me" conflict.


Salty Saturday November 22, 2025 Salty Saturday November 22, 2025
Community

Need to rant about something in the photography world? Here’s your safe space to be as salty as you want without judgement.

Get it all* off your chest!

*Let’s just keep the personal attacks and witch hunts out of it, k?


Full schedule of our weekly community threads:

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
52 Weeks Share Anything Goes Album Share & Feedback Edit My Raw Follow Friday Salty Saturday Self-Promotion Sunday


Macro lens is a must if you hate being outside in the winter Macro lens is a must if you hate being outside in the winter
Gear

I finally have a macro lens coming tomorrow after a couple years without one. I will never make that mistake again.

As someone who hates being outdoors in the winter, I have come to realize the immense value of a macro lens for myself. A macro lens always opens up a world of possibilities. I don’t have to rely so much on beautiful settings, props, people, and I don’t have to suffer through the cold. The tiniest things can be beautiful subjects. You can find them around the house, at a fun antique store, etc. Otherwise, my camera would sit on the shelf for most of the winter.

So, if you find yourself like me and need something to help you to keep shooting in the winter, get yourself a macro lens and get creative!


Am I right to be upset / do I say something? Am I right to be upset / do I say something?
Business

A client I shot an event for (5 hours, 300 photos), mentioned & thanked a disposable camera company that loaned them a few cameras in a reel they posted using all images I captured (on my camera, not disposable cameras)

They did not mention or credit me at all. Am I right in being pissed? Do I have any right to say anything to them??

ETA : thank you so much to everyone who offered feedback! i don’t think i can get back to everyone individually but wanted to express my appreciation for all of the advice. i’m still debating to say something or let this one post slide (if i see another, i will absolutely say something). but on the flip side another brand that was part of the event reached out asking if they could share my images with credits, which i approved - so a little validation there is a right and wrong way to do things :)


Tears of the Pokémoncraft. 💧
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Wedding photography client says I culled too many photos, wants to go through the raw images together Wedding photography client says I culled too many photos, wants to go through the raw images together
Business

I shot my first wedding last month after an old school acqaintance approached me. School was 20 years ago, so we're not exactly close, but he offered to pay good money for it (although still mates rates). After a full day of shooting (12 hours, about 5k raw photos in total including a second shooter), I delivered roughly 20 "preview" shots within 24 hours, and about three weeks later the remaining images, about 550 in total.

Since then the client has messaged to say that I culled too many shots and is asking for me to "expand out" some of them so they have more variety. He sent me a voice message saying that "wedding photography is a bit different" from what I'm used to, that I need to provide more alternative images for each moment, and that it's normal for a wedding photography handover to include going through the raw images with the client to select the ones they want. He asked if we could set up some time to do this. He's worked as an event photographer in the past so claims to know about this. I usually shoot music events and festivals for promotors, bands etc where this is definitely not how it's done.

I'm not really sure how I feel about this... I have a really high standard for what I send to my clients but weddings are definitely new to me, and maybe I'm not sure what the expectations are or what the norm is. It was a fairly relaxed agreement that I would be the photographer for the day, so there's no written contract to lean on and we didn't discuss number of deliverables or his involvement in the editing process at all. He said he was happy for me to just do my thing. From my perspective, the work is finished in terms of the very limited brief I received.

The thing is, I know the shots I provided are awesome. I only cull shots which don't meet my own standards, which I deliberately keep very high. There are definitely moments where there are loads of duplicate shots and I've only sent a few, but I see my ability to select the strongest images and edit them as part of the service I'm being paid to provide. Going through unedited and rejected photos with a client feels like it could damage my brand.

For now, I've agreed that we can go through the shots together but I'll charge for my time, and not mates rates. It's his wedding after all, and I want to make sure he's happy with the results... I guess I'm looking for some insight from anyone with experience shooting weddings, should I accept that this is a reasonable/normal part of the process? Is it a part of the service you'd normally provide?


Where can I send a camera for a “tune up?” If that’s a thing? Where can I send a camera for a “tune up?” If that’s a thing?
Gear

Hi all! I have an old Nikon D40 that I wanted to clean up and get new batteries for and have it tuned up if that’s a thing? To gift to my younger sister who is interested in photography. I’m located on Long Island, New York. But can send anywhere?!

Not sure if that’s even a thing so figured I’d come here to ask!


Give credit to the photographer on all posted pictures? Give credit to the photographer on all posted pictures?
Business

I took pictures of a friend for her business. She paid me for the photoshoot, we didn’t write a contract. Didn’t need to. She posted a few pictures, gave me credit.

She asks me now if, from now on and forever, she needs to give me credit on each picture that she will post on social media or her business website. I rarely do paid photoshoot assignments and I never really thought about that.

Do you ask the clients to give credit on each of the pictures that they post even if they paid you?


Official Gear Purchasing and Troubleshooting Question Thread! Ask /r/photography anything you want to know! November 14, 2025 Official Gear Purchasing and Troubleshooting Question Thread! Ask /r/photography anything you want to know! November 14, 2025
Questions Thread

This is the place to ask any questions you may have about photography. No question is too small, nor too stupid.


Info for Newbies and FAQ!

First and foremost, check out our extensive FAQ. Chances are, you'll find your answer there, or at least a starting point in order to ask more informed questions.


Need buying advice?

Many people come here for recommendations on what equipment to buy. Our FAQ has several extensive sections to help you determine what best fits your needs and your budget. Please see the following sections of the FAQ to get started:

If after reviewing this information you have any specific questions, please feel free to post a comment below. (Remember, when asking for purchase advice please be specific about how much you can spend. See here for guidelines.)


Schedule of community threads:

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
52 Weeks Share Anything Goes Album Share & Feedback Edit My Raw Follow Friday Salty Saturday Self-Promotion Sunday

Finally a friendly reminder to share your work with our community in r/photographs!


Reality Reboot is here, bringing a foundational overhaul to Cell to Singularity. Dive deeper into a reimagined simulation.
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For those who collect photos around one theme what’s your chosen motif? For those who collect photos around one theme what’s your chosen motif?
Art

I am wondering if there are more people out there who collect photos of just one theme/motif.

for years, I have only taken photos of bridges, then demolished houses, and for the past 2 years I have only taken photos of stickers plastered around urban areas. it’s nothing special but I enjoy building collections of photos with the same motifs in them.

I’d love to hear, if there are other people like me, what’s your motif or thing is you collect photos of…


What do we think about shooting portraits wide open? What do we think about shooting portraits wide open?
Technique

I was getting a few close-ups of a friend and I stopped down to f/5.6, shooting on a 50mm. His boyfriend thought I was doing something wrong by not shooting wide open (f/1.4 on my 50mil), but I really hate wide-open portraits especially on longer lens like 35mm and 50mm. I like setting my subjects against a background; either juxtaposing them or making them more "harmonic," but I can't do that with a blurry background. I also like to have cheeks and ears in focus as well.

I think shooting wide-open for portraits is a gimmick and doesn't add anything most of the time. Should be used sparingly. Even when there isn't enough light so ı have to shoot wide open, I prefer to take a few steps back and get a wider portrait rather than get a shot that looks weird. What do y'all think?

edit: apologies for not adding context. This was not a job; I didn't get paid. We were hiking, and I wanted to get a shot of my friend. I agree that situations for professionals might be a bit different


Copyright Advice Copyright Advice
Business

I do a lot of street photography and candid stuff when I’m not doing paid jobs. Recently I shared some of those pictures with an employee of a local government entity. They in turn shared it with a higher up in that entity and now they are being used in their recruitment flyers in print and social media. I in no way signed an agreement for them to be used commercially and I know I still hold the copyright. Is this worth pursuing financially? Or should I just ask them to get rid of it? What’s my best option since the work is already out there ?


What to do with parents' photography prints? What to do with parents' photography prints?
Art

My dad who passed away was a photographer who left a bunch of larger format prints (matted but with cheapo frames). We put some up in our mom's room in her assisted living facility, but there is limited wall space. Is there a place we can donate them that would actually appreciate them? They are a mix of portraits and landscapes. Some are fairly nice though dad had a way of titling everything so "on the nose" that it is a bit embarrassing — he was a mechanical engineer with OCD who had a need to control everything, including what the viewers thought. Oh well.

EDIT: They aren’t my style but since they exist they might as well go someplace that might appreciate them (if that exists).


Best Advice Given to you as a Professional Photographer. Best Advice Given to you as a Professional Photographer.
Technique

For me, the Best Advice Given was around 2001, when I was (reluctantly) transitioning from Film to Digital.

The advice was from a young professional photographer here in NYC, who was at least 20 years younger than me.

He said, “You are stuck at ISO100 and the world has moved on to ISO800 and beyond.”

What was the best advice given to you as a Professional or Serious Amateur Photographer?


365日の農業、友情、楽しさ—次の心地よい冒険がルマ島で待ってる。探検しに来てね!🌸



What are the first steps in making a portfolio? What are the first steps in making a portfolio?
Business

Hello. I've never had to make a photography portfolio, nor did I think this would ever happen. My uni usually looks for journalism/art students, but they actually reached out to students from my major last Friday, looking for photographers/videographers (intern level).

I have a ton of edited & raw photos, but I'm not sure what to include or what my first steps should be. I have a meeting tomorrow with someone to help me out.


Historic perspective on trends Historic perspective on trends
Gear

Photography was a major part of my job 1980 to 2022, when I retired to continue my lifelong pursuit of shooting for fun.

I have witnessed many equipment advances and changing style trends.

I've been amused by some folks' belief that there is something magical about what is referred to as the "full frame" digital format. The 35mm full frame format (in my vague memories) originally was called "miniature," because until the 1930s (and actually far beyond then), still photographers shot with sheet film, 8x10, 4x5, or smaller. In comparison, a 35mm film frame is tiny. Digital "full frame" is just the regurgitated 35mm frame size, which is what it is only because Oskar Barnack repurposed 35mm movie film into his still camera design. Yes APS-C and Micro Four Thirds are smaller formats, but there is nothing magical about "full frame," which itself is considerably smaller than medium format digital cameras or scanning backs on large format cameras. Each format has advantages and disadvantages. None is perfect and none is bad.

I also am amused by the recent trend to always strive for a short depth of field to create bokeh by decreasing depth of field. For most of my newspaper and magazine career, I frequently struggled to increase depth of field so images would bring more of a scene into reasonable focus. Showing surroundings, or even just getting several faces into focus, helped tell the story. Limitations of film speed and other equipment considerations could make this difficult. While I acknowledge the visual and artistic beauty of wild bokeh, I suspect its widespread use is a temporary trend and will fade from popularity when people realize visual context can be as important as the central subject.

It has long puzzled me that so many beginners and advanced amateurs cannot be satisfied with anything other than the latest, most expensive camera and lens. For more than 40 years, I earned my living with used gear, never top of the line. I generally shot with mid-priced cameras and lenses, averaging about a decade old. Sure, I read about the newest models -- but I didn't need them, and I really never desired to own them. Portability is important. And my jobs involved navigating the real world of crowds, rain, snow, dust and blunt objects, so I didn't want to carry expensive gear for gear of damage. In retirement, my newest camera is 10 years old (though I just bought it last year), and I still sometimes use a 20-year-old DSLR.

Many megapixels are nice, but pricey. And not needed for most shooters. I have some beautiful 8x10 prints from images taken with my first digital camera, which produced only 3 megapixels. I rarely make prints larger than 20x24, for which 10 megapixels is plenty -- despite what some number crunchers calculate. People who only view or share images electronically need only a few megapixels.

I always have considered subject matter more important than technical perfection. Perhaps because I matured in an industry that valued reportage, meaning and understanding -- alongside turnaround speed to hit deadlines. Sometimes you have to cut corners to deliver a valuable message on time. Readers want to see what happened, and don't care if the shadows are muddy or a brick wall is slightly out of focus.

I love looking at images by Ansel Adams. I also love looking at images by Daido Moriyama and Olga Karlovac. Technical perfection can be beautiful. But imperfection can share messages just as meaningful, if not more so.



Tips on making a photo book youself? Tips on making a photo book youself?
Art

I wanted to order a fancy photo book online for a birthday coming up, but the lead times are unfortunately too long for what I need. So, second best option is to make it myself.

Has anyone done this before? Do any of you Reddit angels have any recommendations??

I'm happy to get as creative as needed, but I just need to make it happen within 2-3 days. I see Walmart and CVS can do printing, so I'll either glue the pictures and write underneath them, or something. I can always order a fancier version online and have it arrive late.

I just need something for the day itself.

Thank you!


Drivers must die. A fan-favorite car combat franchise is back and more brutal than ever.
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After a year using ShootProof – I don’t recommend it After a year using ShootProof – I don’t recommend it
Business

I’ve been using ShootProof for about a year for my photography business, and I honestly wouldn’t recommend it. I first joined because they had a 50% off Black Friday deal, which seemed great. But after spending more time with the platform, I realized it’s just not very professional.

The website looks old and feels clunky. It doesn’t have a modern design that helps attract clients or make your work look polished. They also offer templates and sites in different languages, but the translations have lots of spelling mistakes. Even their invoices in Spanish have errors, which makes it look unprofessional.

Another big issue is their billing. The system sometimes charges you extra for no reason. There’s a feature that lets you “archive” albums, and they say those don’t count toward your storage. But I still got charged extra for them, about three dollars more each month. Sometimes the system even changes your albums to “archived” by itself so you end up paying more without noticing. This happened to me a few times this year.

Their customer support is also terrible. I emailed and used their chat several times about these issues, but nobody ever answered. It feels like they just want your subscription money and don’t care about solving problems.

Every year, they announce a few “new features,” but they’re nothing special just small design updates that don’t really change anything. For example, this year they updated how galleries look, but it still feels outdated. They also changed the invoice layout, but it still has the same mistakes.

Another issue is that they don’t support many currencies. If you don’t work in U.S. dollars, you can’t make invoices in your local currency. I work in Dominican pesos, and the system doesn’t allow that, which is very inconvenient.

After a full year using ShootProof and managing many client galleries, I can say it’s not worth the cost. They charge extra by mistake, ignore support requests, and make very few improvements. I’d suggest other photographers look for a better and more reliable platform.

evidence:

https://ibb.co/KjSwdY7x

https://ibb.co/4nYzdstL

https://ibb.co/GB51D4G

https://ibb.co/BVpJgVVb


So, what do you do with all of your photos after years? So, what do you do with all of your photos after years?
Post Processing

I spent the last few hours looking back at images. Some taken a few years ago, some taken 20 years ago. They're all decent in their own right - but what the hell do we do with them?

I kinda miss the 90s where film limited the amount of shots you took. You ended up with prints. They ended up in a photobook. End of transaction.

Now? I don't print everything. The shots aren't worth deleting. None of that - they just sit on a hard drive.

I truly feel like I've over-shot my life, and have no suitable way to keep this on display.

Edit: Some really great suggestions here. I see some also share my slightly defeated cynicism.

Thanks y'all! A lot of food for thought.



Visual comparison of different artificial light sources on the same subject Visual comparison of different artificial light sources on the same subject
Technique

I used to have a photography book at school that had a really good section about this, but gave it to a friend and can't remember the title. It compared LED, halogen, fluorescent, candle, carbon arc, mercury vapor and many more.

Any of you guys got a something like this? I'm more interested in solid materials/still life rather than portrait


What does it mean when a potential client mentions a cheaper photographer to you? What does it mean when a potential client mentions a cheaper photographer to you?
Business

I’m a new photographer, I only started getting paid gigs in august. A woman reached out to me inquiring about my 30 minute session which is 249$ for 15 edited family photos. I told her my availabilities and then she sends me a screenshot of another photographers prices, which is $100 for 15 edited photos. She said she’s debating between me and this photographer, and that their portfolio is beautiful. I haven’t responded yet because I don’t know what to say. The other photographers portfolio is indeed beautiful and it’s cheaper than mine, so why is she even telling me all this? Why not go with the other photographer?

Edit: Don’t worry I am not going to lower my price for this client. I am happy with my price


Follow Friday Thread November 21, 2025 Follow Friday Thread November 21, 2025
Community

Let's show each other some support! Use this thread to share your own social, and find other photographers.

  • If you post your stream, please take a look at other people's streams! You can give us your Instagram, 500px, Flickr, etc. etc. and remember you can edit your flair.

  • Be descriptive, don't just dump your username and leave! For example a good post should look like this:

Hi! I'm @brianandcamera. I mainly post portraiture and landscapes, but there's the odd bit of concert/event photography as well.

I'll follow everyone from r/photography back (if I miss you, just leave a comment telling me you're from Reddit!).

Check out and engage with other r/photography people! Community is what it's all about!


Full schedule of our weekly community threads:

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52 Weeks Share Anything Goes Album Share & Feedback Edit My Raw Follow Friday Salty Saturday Self-Promotion Sunday

The latest surge in platinum and palladium prices has investors taking notice. What drove the rally?


Official Gear Purchasing and Troubleshooting Question Thread! Ask /r/photography anything you want to know! November 21, 2025

This is the place to ask any questions you may have about photography. No question is too small, nor too stupid.


Info for Newbies and FAQ!

First and foremost, check out our extensive FAQ. Chances are, you'll find your answer there, or at least a starting point in order to ask more informed questions.


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Many people come here for recommendations on what equipment to buy. Our FAQ has several extensive sections to help you determine what best fits your needs and your budget. Please see the following sections of the FAQ to get started:

If after reviewing this information you have any specific questions, please feel free to post a comment below. (Remember, when asking for purchase advice please be specific about how much you can spend. See here for guidelines.)


Schedule of community threads:

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52 Weeks Share Anything Goes Album Share & Feedback Edit My Raw Follow Friday Salty Saturday Self-Promotion Sunday

Finally a friendly reminder to share your work with our community in r/photographs!


Do you ever get sad as the photographer? Do you ever get sad as the photographer?
Art

I’ve always been casually interested in photography. I recently had a son and got back into using my nicer camera to take photos of him and our family as he grows up.

My partner is not interested photography or taking photos. He’s a little impatient when I try to take thoughtful photos of him and my son. I haven’t even tried to use the tripod for family photos yet.

It kind of makes me sad that I don’t have the same quality of photos (nicely composed) with myself with my son.

Photos turn into memories and I constantly ask myself where will I be in the recorded history of my family?

Anyone else feel like sometimes it’s hard to be the photographer and not the subject? Do you ever get lonely being the person behind the lens?

Edit for further context:

I’m happy to take pictures of my family. I love photography for the act of taking a picture I’m proud of/will cherish.

I just sometimes wish I could have some photos with me in them as well.



Pano stitching free alternative to Photoshop Pano stitching free alternative to Photoshop
Post Processing

Hi, I am trying to combine multiple photographs into a panoramic, I managed to get out of Adobe and I am looking for free alternatives to do so.

I found the free software Hugin which should work but seems to be crashing when I close the tips page (on macOS Sonoma 14.6.1), and yes I already checked the old post https://www.reddit.com/r/AskPhotography/comments/1kh99aa/hugin_wont_get_past_tip_of_the_day_macbook_m1_max/ but it still doesn't work.

Any other suggestions of other softwares that can create panoramics ?


What do you use wildlife/bird/nature Shutterstock photos for? What do you use wildlife/bird/nature Shutterstock photos for?
Technique

I have just started out uploading photos on Shutterstock and wanted to ask what people use wildlife/bird/nature photos they buy for. Are they for wallpapers or specific projects? Is there a different, more important use I need to remember? I have plenty of photos I can upload but I don't know what is actually in demand and useful. Does anyone have an example of a specific hobby or project that they buy bird and nature photos for? I would appreciate the advice!


What’s the ONE piece of advice you’d give to any photographer? What’s the ONE piece of advice you’d give to any photographer?
Technique

Hey everyone,
I wanted to ask you something... No matter how many years you’ve been into photography, whether you’re just starting out or shooting for decades — what’s one piece of advice you’d give for growing as a photographer, not just technically, but in the bigger context of photography itself?

I’ve been a full-time photographer for 15 years, and honestly there are countless tips I could share. But if I had to choose the single most important one that’s been with me since day one, it would be this: always experiment. I mean give yourself room to experiment. Try new things, even if they don’t work out, because that’s often how you stumble on something unexpected.

What about you?


ATLAS 3i Away Team Iron-on


Selling 8x10 prints - to mat or not? Selling 8x10 prints - to mat or not?
Technique

Hi all,

I’m selling 8x10 prints at a table in a venue where people are passing through. I was going to put them in white mats, but then realized that people may likely purchase their own frames which often have mats included. I don’t have much experience doing this and can’t tell if maybe I should just sell them as 8x10 without mats and rather just some backing board so that buyers could choose what they do with it afterwards.

I will be selling other pieces that I have framed for a higher price. I suppose one advantage of the mats is that I could sign them.

Any advice is welcome. Thank you so much.


Meyer Optik Görlitz 50mm 1.8 Restoration Meyer Optik Görlitz 50mm 1.8 Restoration
Gear

Hi,

I have a Meyer Optik Görlitz 50mm 1.8 Restoration since long time ago that I use with my fuji xt-10, good combo for travelling in a low budget. The issue is that a few months ago, while using the lens the focus ring came loose and it is now spinning freely and it doesn´t let me focus. I have noticed some threaded holes (three) on the ring and also in the body of the lens so my guess is that those screws are missing.

I was wondering if someone had this lens or has some documentation about how to disassembe the focus ring to install the hardware to see if that fixes the issue. Also if someone has the spec od the screws it will be good help!

Thanks in advance.


Interesting Ongoing Adorama Experience Interesting Ongoing Adorama Experience
Gear

Hey guys, I just wanted to speak on some of my experience currently with Adorama and see if anyone has had something similar happen. I traded in two camera bodies and two lenses at what I assumed were fair ratings (one body has minor cosmetic scuffs, other is nearly brand new) for a quoted value of $3500 cash. Fast forward to the gear being evaluated I am told both lenses have a significant amount of dust between elements (One used entirely indoors, both full weather sealed), and they lowered my quote to $2200 cash, putting my proposed trade in far out of reach. I have no problem with asking for my gear back, it just seems odd to me, anyone else?


I was in PhotoParis this weekend, my first time. I was in PhotoParis this weekend, my first time.
Art

I was present the four days, early morning and late afternoon. I’m not a professional photographer, but decided to go into art photography a couple of years ago. PhotoParis presents 220 galleries, which represent photographers from around the world. It is considered ‘traditional’, in the sense that many of the images are from classic dead photographers, aimed at an older crowd of collectors. But it is also considered the most important photo fair in the world, given the amount of galleries, the amount of collectors present, and the prices of some images.

First thing that impressed me was the size and presented quality of the works. Many are printed analogicaly, and japanese handmade papers seem to be in fashion. The excellence in printing and framing is clear from the start. I teached me that I need to be way more careful in how i present images. Every detail counts. There are many present in the normal fashion, black or white frame, and paspartou. But usually smaller images from famous photographers. Emergent ones need to call for attention, and works need to look and feel expenesive.

Another idea that jumped to mind is the fact that, although much of the photography from dead or old masters is from street photography, almost all of the new photography is NOT street photography. Either landscapes or portraits, and most of it conceptual. It seems that contemporary art has taken over photography too, and photographers/artist need to research a topic, decide on the 3 or more important ideas (how and why do I look at things, how this topic affects society, whyshould you care about me and this topic, whats the best medium to support my idea, etc.), then decide on the best medium (sock burned using the sun and a loupe made from glass brought from a warzone, or photopaper treated with secret chemicals and left underwater for a week :) ).

It seems just taking a good photograph, of people ina moment, is not enough for you to make it into the photo/art market. You will need research, a lot of experimentation, and good habilities at networking with galleries. Collectors are the ones paying the big prices, and they follow artist careers, not the odd good photograph. Photographers always felt like the lesser brothers of artists, so they moved into art, and now they have to play under those rules.

Photobooks are another big thing during PhotoParis. This traditional way of showing your photography, through a story, in a cheap book, is doing better than ever. Also, lots of collectors chasing the rare items, that was news to me.

Overall, worthwhile a plane ticket there, a once in a lifetime experience for an amateur photographer. It gives you a point of reference, and lots of new ideas for years to come.


Photography LLC names Photography LLC names
Business

My name is Kameron Jones, i’ve been doing photography as a side hustle and finally decided to go all in. Ik a lot of people do first name last name photography problem is that I don’t think it works for me. Kameron Jones is a pretty big athlete if you check on google, my socials are under Kapturre I thought it was unique and creative especially with my lore (I legally changed my name from cameron to kameron..lol) so swapping out the K has a nice spin to it for those who know me personally. Anyways i’m looking for something that is easy to remember, professional, not similar to others out there, and roll off the tongue well.


I just took a major L, PLEASE HELP I just took a major L, PLEASE HELP
Business

I am working with a client, and the audience where FULL of my prospects (dentists). I took pictures of the event in full and they were really good pictures. However, when I went back home I realized what I did.

Before the group photo, I hit "Format card" when it popped on the Sony screen. and I took the group photo. When I went back home, I found only the group photo was there, and everything else was WIPED CLEAN (formatted)

I tried RescuePro, Recoverit, UFS Explorer professional, ASoftRecover, DiskDrill

NONE of them turn back the pictures taken before the group photo, and all of my data is LOST.

Camera type: Sony A7iii
Card: Sandisk Extreme Pro 256gb 200mb/s

I'm a beginner in photography and I just followed youtube tutorials with no luck, could you PLEASE PLEASE HELP. Thank you x)


Beta Testers wanted


Weekly Edit My Raw Thread November 20, 2025 Weekly Edit My Raw Thread November 20, 2025
Community

In this thread, use top level comments to post links to your own raws for other people to edit, or link to any freely licensed (CC or public domain) raws that you might find interesting. If you post your edit anywhere, be sure to credit the original photographer. Reply to others' comments with your own edits of the images!


Full schedule of our weekly community threads:

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
52 Weeks Share Anything Goes Album Share & Feedback Edit My Raw Follow Friday Salty Saturday Self-Promotion Sunday


What say does the client have in the editing process of a photoshoot? What say does the client have in the editing process of a photoshoot?
Business

A month ago I started getting paid for making photoshoots for some friends and more than once I had issues with this particular friend telling me he didn't like how I edited his photos, since I'm a total beginner in making business and I don't know what to do in these cases, to not have any issues I usually ask him what I should change and then adapt to their preference.

In my last shooting he was with another friend so I took pictures to both of them together, edited a prototype of what the finished photos would look like and sent it to both them in a groupchat. One told me he didn't like sparks on the photo and that he wanted them more vibrant, on the other side the other friend told me she did like the sparks and wanted the colors less vibrant.

They both told this to me in the groupchat without even confronting each other directly: what should I do in this case? I am really confused on how to act and how to find a middle ground or if it even is my job to find a middle ground between them.


Client Did Unflattering Poses During Shoot - Do I send? Client Did Unflattering Poses During Shoot - Do I send?
Post Processing

I did a senior session the other day, and the client ended up doing some poses that I was not expecting. I directed her most of the session, but towards the end, she got really comfortable and had some of her own ideas. She was literally doing backbends and other tricks. Her mom did not say anything to put her back on track, she just watched it all unfold. The client was very sweet, but I am questioning whether or not I should edit and send those pictures. There is nothing wrong with how I took the photos, just the poses. The issue is that I would not want to send them just in case they got posted. I feel like it would not reflect my brand well, and the pictures are not very flattering at all. On the other hand, I think she would be upset if those photos were missing. There were quite a few!

Please help!!


Curious about outdoor group photos with nothing but natural light Curious about outdoor group photos with nothing but natural light
Technique

35 years of event photography and I recently decided to jump on the family photos bandwagon -- and outside is always the preference. I always take speedlights and one umbrella but that can be awkward and limiting as far as mobility goes for different backgrounds, action shots, the weather, etc.

I notice the slim majority of other photographers in the same very popular spots that I am with their families and zero artificial lighting. I haven't asked any of them but my standard default is always gear: is it 28-70 2.8s and similar that they're using that enables them to not use anything but sunlight regardless of the weather? I've tried the same approach with my 24-105 f4 and fixed 50 but can't for the life of me figure out what settings they're using. Any thoughts? Thanks!



I am building a massive real time strategy game. Would you play something like this?
media poster


When we go out on a hike, sometimes my friends, who aren't photographers, get better pictures with their Iphones!!! When we go out on a hike, sometimes my friends, who aren't photographers, get better pictures with their Iphones!!!
Art

Hello, I am a beginner. I go out on hikes with non-photohrapher friends and bring my camera to hopefully get some shots. I am using a Sony a6400 with the kit lens. What baffles me, is that sometimes, especially in situations requiring high dynamic ranges(backlit)...my friends may just get a better picture than me with their Iphones. Am I a bad photographer?

Edit: I did not expect such a good response, you guys are awesome!!! Thanks everyone I will keep your advices in mind and keep improving. I love this community!!!


Holiday Photo Event question.. Holiday Photo Event question..
Business

Okay, not really a business, but we're doing something fun this year at our local civic center this coming weekend (November 15).

So, my nephew has this Santa suit and he is perfect in it (he's heavy set and needs no pillows to fill out this Santa outfit) So, we're doing photos with Santa along with cookies and milk. My wife is also going to try and sell some of her arts and crafts there as well.

But here's what we got so far...

I'll be taking photos, My nephew is going to be Santa, my wife and my nephews wife will be doing background stuff like helping position people and all that.

So, the fees are going to seem ridiculously under priced here. Right now, we have a $10 sitting fee for families up to 5 people. That's for 3 poses. We'll have 3 backdrops and they can do 1 pose per backdrop or 3 at one, 3 at one, one at another... etc. Pretty much leaving it up to them.

Disbursement of photos... Here's the tricky part... The original plan was we'd just email them the photos and they could do whatever they wanted with them. Print them out and use them in their Christmas Cards, post them online, whatever. They're their pictures.

Then I thought, no one (not many anyway) is going to want to give out their email address. I hate giving my email address to anyone because I get nothing but junk email in my in-box.

Then I thought, maybe we could just send them to Wal-Mart and they can go pick them up.

... Here's the problem with that... Keeping everybodys names with THEIR photos MAY get tricky as well. My wife thinks we can use a dry erase board and put their name on it for one photo just as an ID type photo. So the dry erase board would have something like "Mike Johnson" or. "The Johnsons" on it. Then all those photos with them in it could be easily moved to a folder on a PC that I plan on having there. So I can just copy the photos into separate folders with their names on the folder by renaming it, The Johnsons or whatever.

This seems like a LOT of work for me to do for $10 (taking photos, organizing photos, sending photos to Wal-Mart when I get home...). But I don't want the prices so high that no one will come. Know what I mean?

I'm just trying to figure out the best way to do this without making it a PITA.

So far, I've came up with the Backdrop idea, I'm shooting the event (BTW, this was all my nephews idea and he pretty much assumed I'd go along with it. I mean, I'm willing to try it even though... it looks like it's going to be a PITA for me). I'm also supplying the computer hardware (I'm also the computer geek of the family and I do have a couple spare computers I can use). Problem with that is, all I run now is Linux. I haven't ran Windows since 2018. I am going to grab a spare computer tomorrow and throw something simple on it like Linux Mint Cinnamon (it's the closest thing to Windows that will run on that older PC). But I don't want to get into PC Tech stuff. All you need to know is I am supplying the PC to do this job.

THEN, Afterwards, since I probably won't be doing Post processing on THAT computer, I'll copy everything over to my computer here which can handle the workload for sure, and process those photos.

Here's the other thing. Yes, it's 3 photos for a $10 session. But that doesn't mean I'm going to be taking JUST 3 photos. No, I'm going to make sure I get 3 great shots. So I will be examining every photo in camera to make sure everyone is looking right at me. If someone isn't, that one doesn't count so I'll have to shoot another one. I'm thinking with kids, I might end up shooting 6-8 photos and have to pick 3 of the best ones out of those. ME... Lordy, what did I agree to?

So, I can't except a "Cancel it because it's not worth the time and effort". This is pretty much a done deal. They used my old business name and everything. I was actually thinking about getting back into wedding photography next year and this would not look good if I just cancelled an event with my name on it 5 days before it. Not good at all.

So, I am doing this one way or another. I just need to know if there's a better way to go about this. We just started telling people about this back in September. We had flyers and all that at a public arts and crafts show that my wife had a booth at and people were taking those flyers. So, I don't know if this is going to go over like gangbusters or if we're only going to get 5-6 families the whole time. I have no idea how this will go.

So... Other than cancellation, is there a better way to go about this without changing proces or anything like that? BTW, Santa is going to want his cut as well. So I'm not making $10 per family. I better make at least $5 per! :)




Small fanny pack for zoom lens (wandrd D1) Small fanny pack for zoom lens (wandrd D1)
Gear

Hello,

I am a professional event photographer. This means I am constantly on the move during my work. I mainly shoot with two lenses: RF - 15-25 f2.8 L and RF 70-200 f2.8 L

I'm looking for a small bag, like a fanny pack, so I can carry my second lens and some gear without being weighed down. The goal is not to put all my gear in it, but just to have the essentials with me when I'm shooting (second lens + 1 battery + 5G router). If I need something specific, I can go back to my main backpack in staff room.

I've spotted the Wandrd D1, but I'm not sure if it will fit the 70-200f2.8. Has anyone used it for this purpose? Can you recommend any other models?

Thanks



Build, decorate, and run your dream toy shop! Craft smiles, serve customers, and grow your cozy world. A relaxing simulation full of charm and color.



Manage family photos Manage family photos
Technique

I’m going through a gazillion family photos which I want to digitize. As a first step - just to get some done for a memorial, I thought I’d take pics of them with my iPhone. They look ok to me but is this much worse than getting them scanned? Also a photo processing place near me has a good reputation. Their website says they scan at 300 dpi - 2400 dpi - is this ok and what is the best dpi? Last question - can these processing places name the new .jpg with info such as names and dates written on the backs of the photos? Also, is the .jpg file a lasting format for Apple or Windows and best to save on disks or what? Thanks for any advice!


Request for Workflow and Image Library Advice Request for Workflow and Image Library Advice
Post Processing

I believe this is my first ever reddit post so be gentle with me. Apologies in advance because I am fairly certain this reads like the ramblings of a madman.

I would like your advice on a photo workflow challenge I have. In particular, sharing photos with my wife before I have finished editing and culling photos taken with my camera. Also, finding a (private) cloud solution that allows us to view and manage images. I accept there may not be a single tool or answer to this challenge.

It’s hard for me to boil this down to a list of questions, because I am no longer convinced that I know what I want or need. So hopefully this will make sense, and you can throw some suggestions at me.

When I take photos on my camera, I end up with RAW files and JPGs. After an event or holiday, I can easily end up with a few hundred files; sometimes 1500 after a long trip.

At present my files are structured by date like:

<year>/<month>.<event1>
<year>/<month>.<event2>

With RAW and JPG either in the same event folder, or in separate subfolders. I am starting to wonder whether it would be better to completely restructure as follows:

<raw>/
<year>/<month>.<event1>
<year>/<month>.<event2>
<jpg>/
<year>/<month>.<event1>
<year>/<month>.<event2>

This would allow me to more easily share only the JPGs. However, when I am culling files in Lr, I want to be able to cull both the RAW and JPG versions. Maybe there is a feature (albums?) or manual process that allows me to do that?

When editing photos, I tend to work from the JPGs, as my camera is set up to my tastes. I tend to use Lr for minor adjustments of exposure, cropping etc. It’s rare that I will process the RAW files again (although I sometime shoot in B&W and want to create a coloured version from the RAW). Because the editing is non-destructive, only I can see the selected photos and edits in Lightroom. Sharing files directly from the photo folders means that my wife sees the unedited photos. Perhaps I need to ensure I habitually create 'export' folders from Lr? 

Once photos are edited, I tend to upload the final images to Google Cloud, as my wife and I have reciprocally-shared libraries. I think our use of Google Photos is another issue, but I’ll come back to that. 

I am aware that Lr and Adobe Cloud could achieve the desired result, as I could create synced albums which would display edits, picks, JPG only etc. However, there are two big issues: one is that I have a huge number of files, so it would require me to upgrade to a more expensive tier. The second issue is that I do not like the Adobe terms of use that basically allows Adobe to create derivative works, train AI models and use my files as they see fit.

I am aware that this may sound contradictory because I already use Google Photos (for our phone photos, plus whatever I upload manually). However, I am increasingly looking to divest from Google Photos and maybe you will be able to help me find the one solution to rule them all. Another reason I do not think Google Photos is viable is because we share libraries. If I upload JPGs and later edit one + re-upload, I have a feeling that my wife will end up with 2 (or more) versions of the same picture in her storage.

I have a decent NAS at home which is capable of running containerised software. I have recently become aware of things like Immich and PhotoPrism, though I have not experimented with them yet. Whatever software I use, I want it to be able to work with whatever folder hierarchy I see fit - not move files around on my NAS, or pollute the photo directories with metadata files.

So there… I have basically brain-dumped some vaguely connected problems I am having in the hope that someone here will be able to suggest some improvements I can make. It's late and I am tired so apologies if this is badly-written.

Any advice and suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!


As an introvert, I feel like an absolute boss when I have a camera. Anyone else? As an introvert, I feel like an absolute boss when I have a camera. Anyone else?
Technique

The older I get, the more of an introvert I become and the more I develop social anxiety. I was a wedding photographer for years, and when I was at a wedding I had so much confidence. I was nicely dressed had my camera gear, and I was known in my area for my work. It felt so good for people to be excited for you to be their artist. I feel like it just gave me some kind of aura. I'd strike a convo with anyone I could, bride's maids and guests flirted with me, Groom and groomsmen wanted to hang out with me after. It felt amazing. I actually have become really good friends with one of the random grooms I met.

Even in a public setting doing street photography or whatever it may be, no one else exists, it's just me in a little bubble behind a lense.

If I go out to a social event, totally different story. I'm put off level shy, I can't think of what I want to say. I can't make myself approach anyone. Hell, I could have a full blown panic attack if I have to run in the grocery store tomorrow.

Anyone else feel like a camera is like wielding the hammer of Thor? Like it gives you power to be who you wish you were? It's almost like having this alternate persona is a technique in my bag of tricks.

Edit: changed lense to lens. Someone said it invalidated my backstory, so I figured I better change it lmao.



Buffering? In 2025? Don't stand for it. Switch to Three Broadband and claim up to £150 this Black Friday.



How do you move from free concert photography to paid gigs? How do you move from free concert photography to paid gigs?
Business

I’ve been shooting concerts for a while, mostly for free, to build a portfolio and listen to good music. I loved it, but I took a break after not landing paying clients from the images I shared on Instagram and other places. Now I’m hoping to start over and now focus on paid gigs.

The tricky part is that the music and live event world is full of “exposure” offers. Local indie bands often don’t have the budget to pay, and mid-sized bands usually already work with someone else and won’t take a chance on a new photographer.

So I’m curious: • How did you transition from free or low-paid concerts to paying clients? • How do you set boundaries while still building a reputation? • Are there ways to leverage your free work into paying gigs?

Thank you in advance.


Getting Faces in Focus with Basic Kit Lens Getting Faces in Focus with Basic Kit Lens
Technique

Having issues getting more than one face in focus with my Canon Rebel and 18-55 MM kit lens. Not doing anything fancy just my own family photos but can't seem to get faces in focus even with great lighting and no one really moving. Sometimes we're staggered (2 adults, 2 kids) but even with a straight line its still blurry on the farthest faces. I have my aperture at 3.5-4.5, ISO 100-200, trying to focus on the main person, nothing seems to work. Tips and or even exact settings would be helpful!


Is there such a thing as a pol-light-scramble-color Filter? Is there such a thing as a pol-light-scramble-color Filter?
Gear

There is this effect when you hold a clear CD case infront of a pol filter, instead of removing reflections, it's colorizing them, depending on the rotation of the filter and case. Essentially the pol filter lets you see the stress in various materials and molded clear plastik happens to be more or less colorfull. But when used in normal composition, this effect seemingly only aplies to reflections.

Is there a dedicated filter that makes use of that effect?


Looking for a simple, large format instant camera Looking for a simple, large format instant camera
Gear

Hello everyone, I'm looking for an instant camera for my girlfriend: she wants something super simple to use, like point & shoot, but with photos larger than the mini format.

We already shoot on film (Canon Prima, full auto), so we like the automatic and spontaneous side. I spotted the Instax Wide 400, but the reviews are mixed: some say that the photos are often poorly exposed or too random.

What would you recommend instead for a nice result, wide format, without the hassle? Or would the Instax Wide 400 work just fine? (Usage: souvenirs, evenings, trips, no complicated manual settings.)

Thank you in advance for your feedback!


Enjoy a game of the classic board game Samurai, by Reiner Knizia. Now available in digital format!
media poster



Did I get enough shots for a 5 hour dinner party? Did I get enough shots for a 5 hour dinner party?
Business

I shot a 5 hour dinner party tonight. 3 of those hours were them seated eating dinner. I shot as much as I could during that time but as you can imagine, not much is happening, and no one wants shots of them eating or putting food in their mouth. 30 min was the slow shuffling in of people, 1 hour was a whiskey tasting, so I got some good stuff there, and then the last 30 min people were a bit tipsy and having fun so i got a good round of shots then.

I’m culling digital images now, and assuming half my film shots are usable, I think I’m gonna end up with around 50 final selects total. This feels low for the amount of time, but it wasn’t a very eventful evening and things started feeling repetitive very quick. It was a tiny room, maybe 30 people, and you can only do so many laps around a dinner table (flash necessary) before you start feeling intrusive.

Idk. I’m a bit worried I didn’t get enough and curious what others think

ETA : I took 70 shots an hour, I haven’t gone through and edited/counted usable images yet but I’m thinking I’m not estimating correctly on final count

Update: Ok so, ~false alarm~ I have over 100. Idk how I estimated 50, this is probably how no matter how many times I cull I still wind up with too many finals, it never feels like as much as it is! I really appreciate everyone’s feedback - it definitely gave me a lot to consider for future reference


AI enhanced photos AI enhanced photos
Post Processing

So I'd like to know yall opinions are. Recently, a college club posted their pictures for an event in the school. Everything was usual until I noticed that the photos were unusually sharp at a distance. I took a closer look to find out that there are some unnatural editing in the picture. There is some sharpness and clarity in the picture but when I zoom in, the texture of surfaces are gone. Actually, all things in the picture are textureless. (Clothes, skin) The type of fabric on the subjects clothes cannot be distinguished by this 'smoothening', wrinkles on the face are also not observable. I suspect that it must have been a 8k AI enhancer or something of similar nature. Because what I think the photographer did is to improve the clarity/sharpness of edges but that also eliminated texture detection from all the images.

You can ask for the pictures and I'll try to update this with a google drive link but I don't know if its allowed here.

EDIT: spelling


Getting started with macro: Laowa 180mm or Laowa 90mm Getting started with macro: Laowa 180mm or Laowa 90mm
Gear

Hello everyone, I have been photographing wildlife (primarily birds) for a couple of years and I enjoy it a lot. I keep seeing macro shots here and there and find that to be quite interesting. Since I'll be going on a trip later this month, I thought I'd use the opportunity to get started.

Once I started researching the topic and what gear to buy, I narrowed down my choice between the Laowa 180mm and the 90mm. I'm having trouble decide and don't know which one would make more sense for a beginner like myself.

Some Context:

- I have a Sony A7R5

- I will be hand-holding and shooting manual with a flash and diffuser.

- I do not plan to focus stack right away, but I think I will get to it at some point.

- I will generally be shooting insects and amphibians in the wild.

Questions:

  1. I like the fact that the 180mm is weather sealed. I live in The Netherlands where it rains most of the year, and I'll be going to Ecuador where I expect it to rain. Am I right to care so much about this?

  2. The 180mm has a 1.5x magnification factor vs. 2x on the 90mm. Honestly, I still cannot wrap my head around the difference and how that influences the end result. Guess I'll need to use a macro lens to really understand what "magnification" does. So, from your experience and if you have to choose today, which one would you go for?

  3. The 180mm seems to have an edge with its longer working distance, but I watched a YT video that said it's harder to focus before it's more "zoomed in". If you've used both before, which one would you say is easier to use in the field?

Any other thoughts you can share are also welcome.

Thanks in advance!


Softbox compatibility (smallrig ra-d60 mini) Softbox compatibility (smallrig ra-d60 mini)
Gear

Hi! I'm planning to buy my first softbox but I'm not sure if it is compatible with the speedlight that I am currently using. I am eyeing for Smallrig RA-D60 Mini Parabolic Softbox to use with my Godox TT685ii. What I'm thinking is I should use Godox S-Type Bowens Mount Bracket with it. Am I correct or are they not compatible? The reason why I'm eyeing for the smallrig softbox is due I can get it cheaper but if it's not gonna work then I will be looking for other options. Thanks!


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Parents only recognize my photography as a hobby Parents only recognize my photography as a hobby
Business

Anyone else go through this? I’ve gotten into photography about 6 months ago, but I retouch for my full time job. I’ve gotten a few large restaurant clients (I do food photography), and have invested a pretty penny into equipment. I’m m26, and my parents seem to break it down as being a waste of money. I’ve noticed a lot of progress since I’ve first started and am constantly talking to new potential clients. Please let me know if I’m crazy. Thanks!


Wildlifre photography tips? Wildlifre photography tips?
Technique

I'm not a professional, just doing photography because I love it-- I've been doing bird photography for a bit now, and I feel like I've stagnated a bit in my ability to capture interesting photos, especially since I've never really been guided in how to do wildlife stuff.

(I'm mostly doing birds since I live on a marsh/river that has millions of birds pass through for migration... and I love birds!)

I can share examples of what I've done before if it's needed (Reddit is so hard to use with photos though) but I'm mostly just looking for general advice! I'm going to be buying myself a longer lens, probably 55-250 since it's cheap, which will help tremendously.

I currently use a Canon EOS Rebel T7. It's not in my budget to get a new camera, but leaving this here in case its relevant to advice.


How annoying is film? How annoying is film?
Gear

Hello, Im a complete photography noob. Just getting into it, taking photos with just my phone. I've been thinking about upgrading to something a bit more substantial. Iv'e been looking at used DSLRs like the Nikon D3400 or the Canon Rebel. But there is this old film camera that my father purchased back in the 90s that's just been sitting around the house. Its Minolta Maxxum 9. Which, after some brief research I found out its one of the best film SLRs ever made. The most advanced they got before the digital age. So, my question. How annoying is film? Its not CRAZY expensive. Should I buy a used DSLR or should I use that money instead for the lower upfront cost of film/developing. To use in an extremely advanced ($1500 in the 90s!) and nice film camera that I already have rn. How much film /development would $400 get me?



Investors are still unable to properly assess Shell’s lobbying and its effect on the company’s LNG strategy.



Japan and zoom / prime travel kit Japan and zoom / prime travel kit
Gear

I’ll be going to Japan soon and could use some advice on what to pack. I shoot full frame (Sony) and I am trying to keep the kit reasonably light, but I am struggling to decide what to leave at home.

Current lenses I own:

  • Sony 12-24mm f/2.8 GM

  • Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8

  • Sony 50mm f/1.2 GM

  • Sony 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM

Trip is mostly Tokyo + Hokkaido (Sapporo and a few days skiing in Niseko). Primary usage will be:

  • Cityscapes and architecture

  • Street / environmental portraits

  • Night scenes in Tokyo

  • Some ski and mountain shots in Niseko

Part of me really likes the idea of travelling with just 12–24 + 50 and accepting the gap in the middle, but I am worried I will miss the convenience of a mid range zoom when walking around Tokyo all day.

For those of you who have shot in Japan, would you feel comfortable with 12-24 + 50 as your main travel combo, or would you definitely bring the 28-70 as well? How would you build a kit from the lenses I already own?