Instagram Challenge Top Picks – Nature & Reflection

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.https://youtu.be/E6PXeQVqZho

Two Challenges! #prtv_nature2 & #prtv_reflection3

A month worth of summer challenges with nature and reflections, nice job folks! We had some great pics this week but check out Toby's video for all the shots and learn a few tips. If you're up for a challenge it's up to you this time with a wildcard challenge, just tag those shots #PRTV_wildcard on Instagram.

Nature Top Pick:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnDyznXncy7/?tagged=prtv_nature2

Reflection Top Pick:

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BmuNILrHzwc/?tagged=prtv_reflection3[/embed]For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks – Bokeh 2

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hL5VGByJFUo

The #PRTV_bokeh2 Challenge

Bokeh is a great tool for separating your subject from a background but you can also have a bit of fun with it as well. Congratulations to Toby's Top Picks and check out the video for all the honorable mentions.

Top Picks

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl3JCsXBjwE/?tagged=prtv_bokeh2[/embed][embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/Bkxro2MAi2-/?tagged=prtv_bokeh2[/embed][embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BmNI0EUnhxw/?tagged=prtv_bokeh2[/embed]For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks – Fireworks

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEpQ2yLlZRs&feature=youtu.be

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_fireworks

Fireworks are fun to shoot and a challenge as well relying on a bit more knowhow to get them right in camera. Congrats to this week's top picks with some great shots for competition in this month-long challenge! Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_bokeh2Next up, your challenge gets a bit blurry with bokeh! Bokeh used creatively can be a tool to separate your subject from their background to make them stand out or add a bit of flair with bokeh balls. Try it this week and post those shots on Instagram with #PRTV_bokeh2!

Top Picks

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BlPCXbPhmy4/?tagged=prtv_fireworks[/embed]

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk2RM-MhI26/?tagged=prtv_fireworks[/embed]
[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk0DQfqnOV8/?tagged=prtv_fireworks[/embed]
[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk2cZm-HeQR/?tagged=prtv_fireworks[/embed]

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks – Songtitle

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_songtitle

We get inspiration from many places when it comes to shooting and this week had a musical spin. Thanks to those that entered as you came up with some really clever ideas! Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_fireworksWe’re changing it up for this next challenge, you have one month to enter! Get all those firework shots out of your system, and you’ve got plenty of time to edit for once. What can you come up with? We’ll be checking out those shots July 25th!

Roy’s Features:
  • A really cute idea for "Hungry Like a Wolf"!
Instagram Challenge
  • While you may be addicted to that soft lens at this point it did a nice job of putting all the focus on your main subject.
Instagram Challenge
  • The inspiration might be "Don't go Chasing Waterfalls" but I think this was a great one for a shot!

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks – Urbex

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.

This Week’s Challenge: Urbex - #PRTV_urbex

A long called for challenge, urbex show’s what we left behind and a good look at something long gone. Your goal for this week and certainly a challenge!

Next Week's Challenge: Song Title - #PRTV_songtitle

We take inspiration while shooting from many places and next week your goal is to use a song title as an idea for a shoot. It should be an interesting challenge so get creative!

Top Picks

  • Toby: I like that this one is light and airy showing the decay
  • Roy: A really interesting shot showing the aging and abandoned setting
  • Toby: A nicely balanced image, the editing really matches the content
  • Roy: A piece of history left behind works well with those iconic posters. It's a shame in your caption the building is now demolished.

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks – Walk

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_walk

Whether in the city or in the country this week’s goal was to get out for some photos either by a bit of street photography or nature. Sometimes the hardest part is just getting out and you all grabbed some neat shots this week.Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_urbexAs I’m relatively near Detroit a popular one for the area is Urban Exploration (Urbex). This week get your explorer on and get some neat shots of some of the more abandoned parts of your area. This was a highly requested subject, so for those that asked, now it's your shot!

Toby’s Features:
  • The Position of the horse - off center, framed by the background trees - perfect!
  • Including the path leading the viewer to the SF city skyline works so very well
  • A lovely scene!
Roy’s Features:
  • A great macro shot and the lighting is just perfect for putting the focus on your subject.
  • An interesting photo and I like that you had someone in frame to break the pattern
  • It’s a nice sunset shot and I like that you cropped it close for the plants in this one.

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks – SOOC

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_sooc

Your challenge this week, if you dared, was to post one shot without ANY editing. Scary for some, but it’s a good challenge this week to really think about the exposure in your photos.Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_walkIts summer time now so that means its a good time for a walk. This week your challenge is to go on a photo walk in your area and shoot a series of photos then post that one best photo that made your day. It's a good chance to practice your street photography or go for wildlife on a nature hike. 

Toby’s Features:
  • I love it when participants try something new to complete a challenge!
  • I can feel the chill and damp just looking at this photo
  • Bright, crisp and lovely - what a shot!
Roy’s Features:
  • I like that the exposure is a bit dark in this and that fade to black in the tunnel.
  • Heather was clever with this one! Shooting a double exposure in camera counts this week.
  • I’m a wildlife nut and I like this headshot, the biggest thing with birds for me is you need to nail that catchlight in the eyes.

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks - Long Exposure

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_longexposure

When you need more light, you make it! With this week’s flash challenge it was your chance to show off those skills when you get away from all natural lighting.Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_soocNo excuses for editing this go around as we want you to shoot straight out of the camera. Think of this week like going back to film so that means you’ve got to nail that exposure.

Toby’s Features:
  • Creatively setup and captured!
  • Love the black and white and smooth water vs tree trunks
  • Lovely sunset tones!
Roy’s Features:
Instagram ChallengeLong exposures let you capture the motion and energy of an area and I think this shot fits the challenge to a T.
Instagram ChallengeA classic long exposure and it’s a neat shot with the water almost looking like a fog.
Instagram ChallengePulling focus is one I didn’t think of when coming up with this challenge and it's a neat way to pull focus to a subject with a creative flair.

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks - Flash 2

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_flash2

When you need more light, you make it! With this week’s flash challenge it was your chance to show off those skills when you get away from all natural lighting.Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_longexposureNext week it’s time to shoot a bit longer. Slowing your shutter speed down just a bit can be a great tool for showing motion, a bit more for blurry waterfalls. At the longest times letting enough light in to catch a milky way and stars.

Roy’s Features:
  • A clever idea and the black and white almost gives it a metallic effect with that more contrasted side lighting.
  • Just a great portrait with nice even lighting that looks great!
  • While I’d suggest a colored gel next time this is a nice go at balancing out a flash with the ambient lighting of a sunset.

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks - Black or White

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_blackorwhite

With May 4th as the official star wars holiday did you go for the light or slip to the dark side? While the theme might be a bit silly it’s all about thinking about the color in your images and how it affects the photos. We’ve got a few neat shots this week and certainly, some that stand out for thinking outside the box.Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_flash2Next week you need to flash your subject. It’s a lighting challenge so you need to add a bit of artificial lighting to your subject whether it’s from a cheap flashlight or an expensive strobe.

Toby’s Features:
Instagram ChallengePerfectly framed and thoughtfully composed - love the B&W treatment here
Instagram ChallengeBlack and white with a hint of golden color - nicely captured
The shadows on the walkway really complete this for me!
Roy’s Features:
Instagram ChallengeBlack and white lets you really push the look of an image and this architecture shot really fits the bill for this week’s challenge
Instagram ChallengeConsidering the challenge I'd have to say going for a high key shot of Yoda wasn't something I thought of this week but really fits the theme.
Instagram ChallengeA bit of work in post but all the focus on this bird for an interesting shot

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks - Golden Hour 3

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_goldenhour3

With spring finally making an appearance it was a great time to get out for some of that golden hour light. While that does include sunsets it's nice to see so many of you thinking out of the box. Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_blackorwhiteMay the 4th be with you! This week your challenge is a bit different in that you’ve got to capture something dark or something light. This is going to be a good challenge for flash photography!

Toby’s Features:
Gorgeous layers so warmly lit - I spent MANY summers at chincotaegue. Love it!
You balanced the flash so nicely with the warm setting sun - nicely done.
Lovely leopard lit but the last bits of light.
Roy’s Features:
A great job at balancing natural and golden light for a really nice shot
If a challenge is about light a golden sun flare I’d say fits the bill.
Wildlife gets super active at later times and catching them in a golden light like this makes for great photos.

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks - Parks

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_parks

Happy Earth Day and National Parks Week! Spring is going strong and you guys got out for some really great photos! Parks are a great location to go shoot a variety of subjects but still close that it's not necessarily out of the way, bar going to Yosemite. Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_goldenhour3Soft and warm light can make for great shots and that’s gonna be what you are looking for in the golden hour challenge. Remember that it's a focus on the light so your subject can be anything you'd like to try shooting. 

Toby’s Features:
Nicely captured some iconic elements of Yosemite NP
Simple composition nicely showcasing Canyonlands
Love the soft low contrast here that matches the feel of the sand and wood
Roy’s Features:
Wooded areas are great for playing with sun flares in your images due to the trees and this photo worked out nicely.
Got to love the tiny details you can find at a park, macro really does make a tiny area a giant one full of options
Parks are not just trees and this landscape shot is a great reminder. Remember when shooting big landscapes like this a foreground element can really balance an image

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Instagram Challenge Top Picks - Architecture 3

Instagram ChallengeEvery week we put your skills to the test in the Photorec.tv Instagram challenge. This is your chance to try something a bit different, maybe learn a new skill, or just get a bit of practice in shooting.

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_architecture3

Some really neat photos this week! Focusing on repeating patterns and light really worked out for this week’s challenge. There are only three top picks this week with Toby on tour but check the rest out at #PRTV_architecture3. Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_parksWith spring starting, hit up a park! This week will be Earth Day and National Park Week with the National Park Foundation so it’s a great time to go shoot outside.

Roy’s Features:
Instagram ChallengeAn interesting take on an architecture black and white that really shows the shapes in the building.
Instagram ChallengeIt might be Trinity College but this shot from Marita almost seems Harry Potterish with this old architecture for a great photo.
Instagram ChallengeA different take on a recognizable monument to most, giving the building a bit of breathing room worked well!

For more info on the Instagram Challenges, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Mish Mash Highlights: 4/11/2018

Photography news

A post shared by Toby (@photorectoby) on

This week's photography news and more with the Mish Mash Highlights. Want to mount an iPhone to a 70-200? It might sound crazy but that's an option this week with a new adapter.Toby's back this week with the live show as well. It's the same material you get here, but straight from the man himself while you can talk to the PEN community in a group chat. If that sounds good sign up to PEN today at photoenthusiastnetwork.com. The live show is just a bonus to a ton of great content.

This Week at Photorec.tv

Want to travel with Toby?We've got some great new trips to sign up for:

New for PEN, join today at Photorec.tv/PEN

  • Tuesday Tips -The F Stops Here! - Getting started with controlling aperture

WPPI Panasonic Booth - Quick look at GX9 and G9 from PanasonicToby spends a few moments with the Panasonic Gx9 and G9. Talking briefly about the Canon M50 and the Panasonic Gx9

Around the Web

We can't cover everything photography news related but we try. For everything else, we've got the best news articles from around the web.This Adapter Lets You Mount Any Giant Lens On Your Tiny SmartphoneWhile manual only, including aperture, check out this neat adapter that lets you shoot with a smartphone. Essentially digiscoping, shooting through a scope, you can use a large variety of lenses (Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sony E). It's a neat idea if a niche item, hit the link for a video for more!Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K is a different beastA smaller micro four-thirds design almost in line with the GH5 with 4K at 60 fps. At $1200 it's an interesting choice and a bit of competition for Panasonic.Other Stories You Might Like:

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge

Instagram Challenge

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_pets3

It’s been a furry week with some nice photos! Glad to see some silly shots this week with the cold weather up here in Michigan. Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_architecture3A focus on buildings this week, try to focus on shapes and lines as a lot of it will be drawing the eye to your subject.

Toby’s Features:
Instagram ChallengeLove the crop!
I agree and the taller dog’s gaze at the camera is perfect!
Instagram ChallengeJust a simple tight portrait! lovely!
Roy’s Features:
I love that yawn! It's a cute shot and a really unique angle.
Instagram ChallengeThe pet for this challenge doesn't have to be yours, using a fast aperture works great to seperate your subject.
A bit of aww, going for that morning light

For more info, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Photos from Space

Sunrise crashes an aurora party

"Sunrise crashes an aurora party over the southern hemisphere," said astronaut Ricky Arnold (@astro_ricky) of the image he snapped from the International Space Station. Auroras are one of the many Earthly phenomena the crew of the space station observe from their perch high above the planet. The dancing lights of auroras provide spectacular views, but also capture the imagination of scientists who study incoming energy and particles from our Sun. Auroras are one effect of such energetic particles, which can speed out from the Sun both in a steady stream called the solar wind or from giant eruptions known as coronal mass ejections or CMEs. After a trip toward Earth that can last three days, the solar particles and magnetic fields cause the release of particles already trapped near Earth, which in turn trigger reactions in the upper atmosphere in which oxygen and nitrogen molecules release photons of light. The result: the Northern and Southern lights. #earth #aurora #night #day #nasa #international #space #station

A post shared by International Space Station (@iss) on

Major Tom Spaceman LED LightPick up a "Major Tom" spaceman LED light for your computer today. Part of Toby's Photos from space segment and it helps support the site. Click here to buy your own Major Tom on Amazon.Want to keep up with things happening this year? Sync your calendar with the solar system

That's all folks! We'll be back next week with even more of your photo news. If you guy's like the highlights leave us comments on the social media posts and we'll keep this going!
Upcoming live show schedule for PEN - No show on April 18th

Mish Mash Highlights: 4/4/2018

Photography news

A post shared by Toby (@photorectoby) on

This week's photography news and more with the Mish Mash Highlights. This week Lightroom got a big update, if you haven't noticed yet go check it out. We've also got a bunch of gear in for reviews so that'll be coming out soon!Toby's back this week with the live show as well. It's the same material you get here, but straight from the man himself while you can talk to the PEN community in a group chat. If that sounds good sign up to PEN today at photoenthusiastnetwork.com. The live show is just a bonus to a ton of great content.

This Week at Photorec.tv

Want to travel with Toby?We've got some great new trips to sign up for:

New for PEN, join today at Photorec.tv/PEN

  • Tuesday Tips Need Inspiration? Steal it!
  • The Making of a Black and White Series
  • PEN PPA Level Photo Critique - March

Articles Out this week!

Lightroom Classic CC v7.3 | April 2018 UPDATESFor those that want to get a bit more advanced with their editing Lightroom Classic now has a new color profile system and creative profiles. A big boost to editing and we should be seeing some really neat presets in the future. Along with the update there's been a few UI changes and items moved for better workflow, hopefully to get you out shooting again faster.

Around the Web

We can't cover everything photography news related but we try. For everything else, we've got the best news articles from around the web.

As one of those viral stories, you can't stop this Canon G12 that managed to survive under water for two years! Al beit, thanks to an underwater housing, but with the power of social media they managed to find the owners within a couple days. This little Canon got swept 155 miles away from where it was lost in Japan to end up in Taiwan and fortunately found by school kids.

[embed]https://www.facebook.com/park.lee.10/posts/1976030532434236[/embed]

 Other Stories You Might Like:

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge

Instagram Challenge

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_dark2

Starting out I think a lot of photographers wait for that bluebird sky to take photos. So this week we flipped the script going for darker shots whether you got a bit creative or just waited for that light to fall. Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_pets3Time to let the fur fly with a pets challenge next! Go get some cute shots or your pets, or someone elses, for a nice shot this week.

Toby’s Features:
Instagram Top Pick
Instagram Top Pick
Roy’s Features:
Instagram Top Pick
Instagram Top Pick
Instagram Top Pick

For more info, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Photos from Space

Check out theis neat shot of Java, Bali, and Lombok. It almost looks like someone photoshopped a line of islands into a shot :)

From space, the sprawling Indonesian islands of Java, Bali and Lombok appear perfectly arranged. In this majestic view, captured from 250 miles above courtesy of astronaut Ricky Arnold (@Astro_Ricky) aboard the International Space Station (@iss), the impeccably aligned islands are disconnected only by tiny passages of water called straits. The Lombok Strait, which separates Bali and Lombok, is a slice of an invisible boundary called the Wallace Line. The margin, which runs between Asia and Australia, was created by British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace in 1859 and was drawn to separate the wildlife of Australia from the wildlife of Southeast Asia. This study of the geographical distribution of species and ecosystems is called biogeography and was formed from the work of Wallace and other biologist and explorers. There are currently six people living on the space station. While living aboard humanity’s only permanently occupied microgravity laboratory, they will work on hundreds of experiments in biology, biotechnology, physical science and Earth science. Credit: NASA/@Astro_Ricky #nasa #space #spacestation #crew #astronaut #spacecraft #orbit #earth #research #science #picoftheday #indonesia #bali #archipelago #java #lombok #islands

A post shared by NASA (@nasa) on

Major Tom Spaceman LED LightPick up a "Major Tom" spaceman LED light for your computer today. Part of Toby's Photos from space segment and it helps support the site. Click here to buy your own Major Tom on Amazon.Want to keep up with things happening this year? Sync your calendar with the solar system

That's all folks! We'll be back next week with even more of your photo news. If you guy's like the highlights leave us comments on the social media posts and we'll keep this going!
Upcoming live show schedule for PEN - No show on April 18th

Mish Mash Highlights: 3/28/2018

Photography news

A post shared by Toby (@photorectoby) on

This week's photography news and more with the Mish Mash Highlights. In the news, a leaked GoPro announcement looks like we'll be getting a $200 budget model. Then you can finally stop worrying about the dreaded Instagram shadowban hopefully with a new site that checks your posts.Toby and Steve are back with this week's live show and this is the same highlights we use so you guys get this week's rundown. If you'd rather watch then read, sign up to PEN today at photoenthusiastnetwork.com, the live show is just a bonus to a ton of great content. For everyone that are already PEN members, thank you for supporting the site!

This Week at Photorec.tv

Want to travel with Toby?We've got some great new trips to sign up for:

  • New for PEN, join today at Photorec.tv/PEN
    • Tuesday Tips - Foreground and Background Elements for Story-Telling! 
    • We tend to focus on our subject a bit too much starting out. This article from Instructor Ally McKay is a great step to think about how to layer details in your photos.
  • Moment Lenses - The Filmmaker Collection
    • Toby has been a big fan of the Moment lenses and they've just announced a new collection on Kickstarter.

Around the Web

We can't cover everything photography news related but we try. For everything else, we've got the best news articles from around the web.GoProLeaked: GoPro to reveal entry-level 'HERO' action cam this week, will cost $200With a few leaked photos and a sales PDF it's clear GoPro is out to release a new budget HERO action camera. The problem with a new non-4K model... is it really needed? GoPro as of late has been feeling the pressure, especially with YI technology and other companies releasing more action cameras into the market. But as it stands it's a budget camera without 4K capability but price wise the HERO5 Black is at the same point with higher specs. At the moment it's $299 with a $25 gift card back at B&H and elsewhere sales have gone down to $220. This might be another shot at stemming the tide to cheaper models but it just doesn't work.Leaked Specs:

  • 1080/60P & 1440/60P video
  • 10 MP Stills at 10fps
  • Timelapse video
  • Waterproof up to 33 Feet (10m)
  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Voice Control

This New Instagram Shadowban Tester Examines Your Last 10 PostsInstagram Shadowban TestFor those using Instagram that have a low liked post, it's time to try the new and improved Instagram shadow ban tester. From trying to abuse the system with a bot or accidentally using a banned hashtag (Toby did last week) it's easy enough to fall under the dreaded Instagram Shadowban scare. I wasn't a big fan of how Tiberr's original tester worked but if you think you may be affected, or curious, this is a quick way to go see. The new site actually lists the hashtags you use and scratches out any that are on the banned list. Like the article from PetaPixel mentions if you are showing up affected just remove the bad hashtags and try not to use Instagram for a couple days.As a warning for those that don't post too frequently this only checks the last week or so. Anything past that will show a flag simply because they can't find it online.Other Stories You Might Like:

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge

Instagram Challenge

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_highorlow

Some fun shots, and duck butt, for this week's High or Low challenge! Something a bit different as it pushes you out of that static standing pose shooting for something a bit more dynamic. Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_dark2Photorec.tv gone dark! With warmer weather mostly here it's time to shoot a bit later or a bit darker for some fun shots. A good one to try would be some blue hour city shots as there's just that little bit of light left that makes the city lights pop.

Toby’s Features:

I wish there was something that offered a sense of scale but the image is still a stellar shot - love the pattern of the ice and the dark water

Instagram Top Pick!

The angle and the dress spread on the floor work well together to really draw you right to the face

Instagram Top Pick

Great angle on a nice clean shot of a Joshua tree with that beautiful starry sky!

Instagram Top Pick

Roy’s Features:

I like how being down low in this really shows the scale with that wider lens.

Instagram Top Pick

A hint of texture gives a nice feel for this photo with the bridge nice and soft in the background.

Instagram Top Pick

This is a bit neat as it’s a much higher angle that puts the focus all on your subject.

Instagram Top Pick

For more info, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Photos from Space

The Crab Nebula, a composite image using photos from the Hubble, Chandra, and Spitzer space telescopes. Using different filters the Hubble shows the purple hues while the other two telescopes shot the white and blue for this neat image.

A crab walks through time - this new composite image of the Crab Nebula uses data from our Hubble (@NASAHubble), Chandra (@chandraxray) and Spitzer space telescopes and gives new insights to this celestial object. We've learned a lot over the years about this intriguing exploded star and its pulsating core. It was one of the first objects that our Chandra X-Ray Observatory examined with its sharp X-ray vision, and it has been a frequent target of the telescope ever since. There are many reasons that the Crab Nebula is such a well-studied object. For example, it is one of a handful of cases where there is strong historical evidence for when the star exploded. Having this definitive timeline helps astronomers understand the details of the explosion and its aftermath. In the case of the Crab, observers in several countries reported the appearance of a “new star” in 1054 A.D. in the direction of the constellation Taurus. Much has been learned about the Crab in the centuries since then. Today, astronomers know that the Crab Nebula is powered by a quickly spinning, highly magnetized neutron star called a pulsar, which was formed when a massive star ran out of its nuclear fuel and collapsed. The latest image of the Crab is a composite with X-rays from the Chandra X-Ray Observatory (blue and white), Hubble Space Telescope (purple) and Spitzer Space Telescope (pink). The extent of the X-rays in this image is smaller than the others because extremely energetic electrons emitting X-rays radiate away their energy more quickly than the lower-energy electrons emitting optical and infrared light. Credits: X-ray: NASA/CXC/SAO; Optical: NASA/STScI; Infrared: NASA-JPL-Caltech #crabnebula #chandra #hubble #spitzer #telescope #astronomy #xray #nebula #space #nasa #astronomy #science #picoftheday #pictureoftheday

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Major Tom Spaceman LED LightPick up a "Major Tom" spaceman LED light for your computer today. Part of Toby's Photos from space segment and it helps support the site. Click here to buy your own Major Tom on Amazon.Want to keep up with things happening this year? Sync your calendar with the solar system

That's all folks! We'll be back next week with even more of your photo news. If you guy's like the highlights leave us comments on the social media posts and we'll keep this going!

Mish Mash Highlights: 3/21/2018

Photography news

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Photography news and more with this week's Mish Mash Highlights update. Toby's just touched down in Seattle after going on safari in Africa so you should be seeing more content from him soon. As for this week in news Adobe got a price bump and Lytro is being bought out for a whopping $40 million.While Toby does the Live Show for PEN this is your quick peek at what we’re doing behind the scenes. But, you can always join Photo Enthusiast Network and watch Toby live, find out more at Photorec.tv/pen. For everyone that are already PEN members, thank you for supporting the site!

This Week at Photorec.tv

Want to travel with Toby? We've got some great new trips to sign up for:

Around the Web

We can't cover everything photography news related but we try. For everything else, we've got the best news articles from around the web.Adobe Breaks $2Billion This Quarter | Where’s The Revenue Going?Adobe Announces Creative Cloud Price IncreaseThe big news this week is that Adobe is raising their prices at the same time of having record profits. Those with Adobe photography, student, or Acrobat plans are safe for now. Having both announcements simultaneously have annoyed some of the Adobe userbase as the cash is mainly going to investors while updates have been slim. With software like Capture One, catching up, and faster than Lightroom in areas is it time to jump to another editing software?

  • Creative Cloud for Individual Single App plans will increase to $20.99 per month from $19.99 per month or $1 per month
  • Creative Cloud for Individual All Apps plans will increase to $52.99 per month from $49.99 per month or $3 per month
  • Creative Cloud for Teams All App plans will increase to $79.99 per month from $69.99 per month or $10 per month

LytroSources: Google is buying Lytro for about $40MWhen Lytro came out both Toby and I found it interesting but more of a fad. Their lightfield technology allowed you to refocus a shot in post or change depth of field, which admittedly would be handy. Now while things might not have worked out perfectly for them Google is reportedly buying them for $40 million. While their camera tech wasn't a perfect fit for the market the technology might find a new life in immersive VR. Using the camera tech to make better results for VR and capturing images for it. As Google does make Android software and the Google Pixel series of phones hopefully we'll see some of the software trickles down.Other Stories You Might Like:

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge

Instagram Challenge

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_colorful2

Despite some snow still here in Michigan spring is coming and you guys showed the color with this weeks challenge. Nice job thinking out of the box with some neat indoor shots like crafts!Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_highorlowA composition can be one of the biggest points separating a subject from a snapshot. For the next challenge, your goal is to shoot with a bit of elevation, or get close to the ground. Changing heights can change your view from the standard eye level view to something a lot more interesting for a photo. Go try it out and good luck this week!

Roy’s Features:

Nothing says springtime color like some early blossoms.

Instagram Top Pick

A bit more on the creative side and certainly a colorful one at that for sure.  

Instagram Top Pick

A rainbow of mixed flowers certainly works for this challenge and sets a colorful scene.

Instagram Top Pick

For more info, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Photos from Space

Breathtaking images! NASA’s Juno spacecraft releases pics of Jupiter storm

Some more neat shots from the Juno spacecraft, go check out this massive storm on Jupiter.Major Tom Spaceman LED LightPick up a "Major Tom" spaceman LED light for your computer today. Part of Toby's Photos from space segment and it helps support the site. Click here to buy your own Major Tom on Amazon.Want to keep up with things happening this year? Sync your calendar with the solar system

That's all folks! We'll be back next week with even more of your photo news. If you guy's like the highlights leave us comments on the social media posts and we'll keep this going! For Pen members, Toby will be back on air March 28th.

Mish Mash Highlights: 3/14/2018

Photography News

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Your photography news and more this week with the Mish Mash Highlights. This week Toby's off in Africa on safari, check out the little cute baby baboon! Then in the news, Toby released his a7III official review and it sounds like Canon and Nikon are close behind.While Toby does the Live Show for PEN this is your quick peek at what we’re doing behind the scenes. But, you can always join Photo Enthusiast Network and watch Toby live, find out more at Photorec.tv/pen. For everyone that are already PEN members, thank you for supporting the site!

This Week at Photorec.tv

Want to travel with Toby? We've got some great new trips to sign up for:

Around the Web

We can't cover everything photography news related but we try. For everything else, we've got the best news articles from around the web.Did Instagram Just Bring Back Chronological Feeds?Without a big announcement from Instagram, you might have noticed your Instagram feed has changed a bit. Instagram has been testing out a new feed for some that prioritize more recent posts like the original chronological feed that sorted photos by most recent. Something you all want as our Instagram poll was nearly 100% for a change. This is getting more people to see your posts and letting you see posts from people that might have been not showing up often. It's a welcome change, likely as Instagram has been feeling a bit of pressure from Vero and Ello apps so they are trying to keep their users.Sony Exec Predicts Canon and Nikon Full-Frame Mirrorless Within a YearSo the million dollar question, with a camera like the Sony a7III now out when will Canon and Nikon catch up? At least according to Sony's General Manager Kenji Tanaka they think it will be within a year. Canon's been strongly pushing for a full frame mirrorless and market share lately so it is a big possibility that we might see something soon. Would you go for a Canon/Nikon full frame mirrorless or do you want to make the switch to Sony?Other Stories You Might Like:

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge

Instagram Challenge

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_silhouette2

Going a bit darker for the silhouette challenge was hopefully a bit of fun for those of you that submitted. From a technical point it's a nice way to control your exposure to get a different result, and on the artsy side something different you can do for a shoot. There are some really nice shots this week so go check them out!Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_colorful2Some color to hopefully bring in spring, it's still snowy here, unfortunately. For this challenge, it's time to put up some colorful shots! As a tip watch your histogram so you don't blow out your photo, more on that in my shooting reds article.

Roy’s Features:

A clever shot with some nice color and action!

Instagram Top Pick

As you can really set the mood with a silhouette this really makes for a nice peaceful scene. 

Instagram Top Pick

A nice way to really put the focus and set the scene for those dramatic clouds.

Instagram Top Pick

For more info, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Photos from Space

A neat shot this week with geology showing Mars's watery past.

Major Tom Spaceman LED LightPick up a "Major Tom" spaceman LED light for your computer today. Part of Toby's Photos from space segment and it helps support the site. Click here to buy your own Major Tom on Amazon.Want to keep up with things happening this year? Sync your calendar with the solar system

That's all folks! We'll be back next week with even more of your photo news. If you guy's like the highlights leave us comments on the social media posts and we'll keep this going! For Pen members, Toby will be back on air March 28th.

Mish Mash Highlights: 3/7/2018

photography news

A post shared by Toby (@photorectoby) on

Toby's slowly making his way to Africa for a safari, taking a bit of a pit stop in Amsterdam for a vacation. With WPPI over this week news is a bit slower but Later.com got a big update for Instagram and Canon is ready to make a move... finally. As always this is your weekly highlights with photography news, Instagram top picks, photos from space, and more!While Toby does the Live Show for PEN this is your quick peek at what we’re doing behind the scenes. But, you can always join Photo Enthusiast Network and watch Toby live, find out more at Photorec.tv/pen. For everyone that are already PEN members, thank you for supporting the site!

This Week at Photorec.tv

Want to travel with Toby? We've got some great new trips to sign up for:

  • New for PEN, join today at Photorec.tv/PEN
    • Tuesday Tips - See as a Photographer! Tips on how to see things as a photographer for the best composition for your photos.
    • New Videos!
      • Lightroom Crop and Export for Print or Share Online, a complete guide on how to export your photos and getting them ready to print by Toby
      • The Making of a Black and White Series Part 1, this week David introduces some basics on how to start working on your photos for a great black and white photo.
  • Sony a7III vs a7RIIIa7III vs a7RIII
    • With the a7III out the big question now is should you go with it or the a7RIII. It's a battle of specs and Toby's got all the details.
  • Review – Sony 12-24 f/4 and SUPER WIDE NISI Filters
    • The Sony 12-24 ultra wide gets a review after some shooting in Yellowstone plus NISI has a great filter made just to fit it.
  • Back to the Serengeti
    • As Toby is soon to be in Africa this is a follow up of all the gear that made the trip and the multiple vlogs from the last tour.

Around the Web

We can't cover everything photography news related but we try. For everything else, we've got the best news articles from around the web.Schedule Posts Automatically to Instagram with Later!Later.com, our favorite site for scheduling Instagram photos, just got a big update to post photos directly to Instagram. This means you can post photos directly from your computer without the risk of a shadow ban and schedule without having to stop later on to push it out from the later phone app. The catch for this is carousel (galleries) and videos still are not automatic, no tagging, no locations, and you need to have an Instagram business page. The locations part is unfortunate as you do get people coming in from there, but overall the benefits are great for someone busy or wanting to post at work.

Sign up today at Later.com and hit the link above for how to use the new feature

Canon's latest camera releases were known to be a bit on the safe side, trying to protect their other models. As DSLR sales are dropping and mirrorless are becoming more popular Canon has finally decided to really push into the mirrorless market. Same news as usual with their previous announcement but this time suggesting models having higher end specs competing with their DSLR line. With a release of the m50, a mirrorless entry level with 4K, and pulling their pros for suggestions of whats needed the change is coming. With Sony in the lead at the moment a bit more competition is needed as Canon has been the sluggish one of the big three. Hopefully we'll see more soon including the rumored full frame mirrorless camera from Canon.Other Stories You Might Like:

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Featured Photos Weekly Challenge

Instagram Challenge

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_Mood

Showing a bit more mood in your photos was the challenge this week and a good step for something a bit extra to a shot. Whether a person, place, or thing it's another interesting element to add to a scene.Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_silhouette2A fun technical challenge this week as you get to play with the light to try to get some nice silhouettes. This is a great challenge for using a flash or waiting for the sun to get a bit lower to really nail the silhouettes. This should be a fun challenge and you can even try a table top shoot.

Roy’s Features:

I'd say that fox is slightly loving the snow in that picture and it's a great shot that sets the mood.

Instagram Top Pick

A nice one by Jane, going with a black background really captures the subject without any distractions to put focus on the action and mood. 

Instagram Top Pick

Capturing a more candid looking moment for a great shot of the happy couple.

Instagram Top Pick

For more info, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Photos from Space

Hubble Finds Huge System of Dusty Material Enveloping the Young Star HR 4796A

The start of a planet, a 150 billion mile wide dust cloud surrounding a starYoung Star HR 4796A

Also check out: Satellite Eye on Earth: January 2018 - in picturesMajor Tom Spaceman LED LightPick up a "Major Tom" spaceman LED light for your computer today. Part of Toby's Photos from space segment and it helps support the site. Click here to buy your own Major Tom on Amazon.Want to keep up with things happening this year? Sync your calendar with the solar system

That's all folks! We'll be back next week with even more of your photo news. If you guy's like the highlights leave us comments on the social media posts and we'll keep this going! For Pen members, Toby will be back on air March 28th.

Mish Mash Highlights: 2/28/2018

Photography news

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A big week for photography news, it's the end of the WPPI conference with Toby in Las Vegas to cover the event. We've got early thoughts on the new Sony a7III as well as a bevy of lenses, flashes, and more gear. As always this is your weekly highlights with photography news, Instagram top picks, photos from space, and more!While Toby does the Live Show for PEN this is your quick peek at what we’re doing behind the scenes. But, you can always join Photo Enthusiast Network and watch Toby live, find out more at Photorec.tv/pen. For everyone that are already PEN members, thank you for supporting the site!

This Week at Photorec.tv

Preorders are live for the Sony a7III in body only and with a 28-70mm lens

Around the Web

We can't cover everything photography news related but we try. For everything else, we've got the best news articles from around the web.The Canon EOS 4000D might be the cheapest DSLR ever launchedCanon introduces EOS Rebel T7 with updated 24MP sensorCanon's beginner line just got updated with the T7 and there's a new budget-friendly 4000D coming to Europe only for now. The T7 gets an upgrade to the current 24MP sensor but that's about it as Canon is trying to push their higher end models. The 4000D will be an even more streamlined version of the T7 for around $385 body only.

Canon T7Canon 4000D

6 Things to Know About Vero, the App Everyone and Their Mother Is Talking AboutAs you might have heard, everywhere, there's a new hot app for photographers on the market called Vero. It's currently having growing pains while upgrading servers to fill demand it's a bit tricky to log in at the moment. Vero is like Instagram in terms of posting, but there's no pesky algorithm in your way, making it a fan of those annoyed with Facebook and Instagram's filtering posts. Billed as a social media platform for users it has no ads, paying for the service with an in-app buy now feature and eventual subscription for later users. There has been a backlash towards the app though, as it's founder has a shady past. If this sounds interesting hurry up, as only the first million subscriptions are free. You can find me at roymckeeiii and Toby at photorectoby.

Get Vero at Google Play or the Apple App Store

Hot Deal! Thanks to WPPI this week get the Canon Pixma Pro-100 Printer for just $99.99 with code BHWPPI18Other Stories You Might Like:

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge

Instagram Challenge

This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_DIY

A do it yourself week with those little DIYs, photography related or not. It's nice to challenge yourself from time to time and these little projects can net you some interesting shots.Next Week's Challenge: #PRTV_MoodNext week is a bit trickier as you have to capture emotion. While portraits could be key this week you can think out of the box for something such as a rainy day for feeling down and sad. Remember color can play big into this, we read into things a lot and color can be that extra little push that can make the scene.

Roy’s Features:

Bubble solution for a neat DIY! I like the blue stripe for whatever was in the background. Check out Jane's post for some tips on doing this one.

Instagram Challenge

Sharp and colorful! It's certainly a neat DIY with lots of color. 

Capturing smoke takes a lot of photos but you can get some neat shots. What does this one look like to you?

For more info, the schedule, and past top picks go check out photorec.tv/prtv. Try out some of Toby's Instagram Tips. For everything else Instagram, tag those shots #PRTV and #penlive for our daily photo features.

Photos from Space

NASA spacecraft snaps breathtaking photo of Jupiter storm

A snapshot from Juno recently released by Nasa of Jupiter's giant red dot.Jupiter

Also check out: Satellite Eye on Earth: January 2018 - in picturesMajor Tom Spaceman LED LightPick up a "Major Tom" spaceman LED light for your computer today. Part of Toby's Photos from space segment and it helps support the site. Click here to buy your own Major Tom on Amazon.Want to keep up with things happening this year? Sync your calendar with the solar system

That's all folks! We'll be back next week with even more of your photo news. If you guy's like the highlights leave us comments on the social media posts and we'll keep this going! For Pen members, Toby will be back on air March 28th.