Nikon D850 Leaked Press Release

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Nikon D850Nikon D850With an official announcement for the D850 coming likely tomorrow, the press release was leaked earlier to Nikon Rumors. Between that and specs leaked earlier, the D850 is looking quite sweet as the successor to the D810. The Big Takeaway has to be the 45.7 MP full-frame sensor as a nice upgrade from the previous D810's 36.3 MP. All unofficial specs for now but with the source of the info it's looking likely and we'll find out soon anyway.Other Interesting Specs:

  • 9 FPS Continuous Shooting - 7fps without the battery grip, 9fps with grip, using a 51 shot RAW buffer.
  • Fast Auto Focus - 153 points! Brought down from the D5, this super fast AF will work great in low light up to -4EV using the center focus points.
  • Tilting Touchscreen - A tilt screen is a life saver, and a back saver as well for getting low to the ground shots, it makes a big improvement for shooting. It supports full touch controls with touch AF, touch shutter and touch menu making reviewing photos or changing settings a breeze.
  • 4K Video - 4K UHD video in FX (no crop) and slow-mo video at 120fps in Full HD.
  • Silent Shooting Mode - No-sound electronic shutter for live view. 6 FPS silent shooting up to 30fps at 8MP with the electronic shutter.
  • "On-Camera" Focus-Stacking Mode - A great option for macro lovers, the first to offer an option for in-camera focus stacking. Moving the focus slightly between shots to increase depth of field.

Press release via Nikon Rumors:

August 24, 2017 - Nikon is pleased to present the new Nikon D850 digital SLR, perfect combination of resolution, speed and light sensitivity. From studio photography to sports, to reportage in the most remote places on the planet, the new full-frame DSLR in Nikon FX format not only delivers high performance, but brings photo excellence to a whole new level.Whether it's naturalistic, sporting, commercial, wedding, fashion photography, whether it's shooting movies, the D850 offers photographers who work in highly competitive fields the creative flexibility needed to excel. The fast, 45.7-megapixel FX high-resolution FX sensor is built with the "gapless on-chip" microlent technology that, together with the benefits of CMOS backlight, delivers exceptional detail sharpness along with an incredible dynamic range. The shooting speed of 7 fps can go up to 9 fps by adopting the optional MB-D18 multi power battery pack. Video-makers can then record full-size movies in 4K without clipping factor crops: this increases the chances when looking for extended field corners to resume with NIKKOR prime lens lenses. Additionally, you can record timelapse of 4K accelerated movies directly on "camera".The other new features that allow maximum flexibility include capturing RAW format in three different sizes: large, medium or small; The silent Photography mode, which makes it possible to shoot ultra-sharp, high-resolution images without the sound / mechanical shutter noise; The AF Pinpoint mode, available in Live View, allows you to make the auto focus more accurate and selective as required, for example, in the case of macro photography.In addition, the Nikon D850 is the first digital reflex of all time to offer "on-camera" focus-stacking mode, which allows you to shoot a series of shots sequentially of the same shot but with the focus plane Motorized in displacement. This mode is particularly useful in macro photography, when the close distance of the subject narrows the depth of field to a few millimeters but also for artistic representations of naturalistic scenarios to enhance the extreme depth of field.Nikon says: "The D850 offers such incredible versatility to give you the impression of working with three cameras in one. Megapixels, file size, speed, ISO ... in every field, you can be assured that the Nikon D850 excels! It's a really smart investment for photographers who want to enhance their skills and express themselves without compromise. "Full Rumored Specs via Nikon Rumors:
  • 45.75MP full frame CMOS sensor
  • New and improved version of SnapBridge
  • No built-in GPS
  • Tiltable LCD (3.2", 2.36 million dots)
  • Fully functional touchscreen: supports touch AF, touch shutter and touch menu
  • Memory card slots: one SD and one XQD
  • AF system from the D5 (153 points, 130% frame coverage compared to the D810, all AF points @ -3EV,  middle/center crosshair sensor @-4EV)
  • New smaller AF point
  • No built-in flash
  • Back illuminated buttons
  • Joystick selector
  • Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
  • 8K time-lapse video capabilities
  • 4k UHD video in FX format (with no crop)
  • No EVF or hybrid viewfinder
  • Slo-mo full HD 120fps video
  • The SD slot will support UHS-II
  • Improved LiveView split-screen display
  • Improved silent shooting mode: fully-silent, no-sound electronic shutter in live view (6 fps silent shooting, no mechanical movement, can shoot up to 30fps @ 8MP with the electronic shutter)
  • Improved battery life
  • Lighter than the D810
  • Native ISO range: 64-25,600
  • ISO 64 extendable down to ISO 32 (Lo1 = 32, Hi 2 = 108,400)
  • 7fps without grip, 9fps with grip (MB-D18a battery grip and the EN-EL18a battery)
  • 51 images raw buffer at 14-bit RAW
  • 0.75x optical viewfinder (largest ever on a Nikon FX cameras)
  • 180k RGB meter
  • No AA filter
  • Supports for Nikon wireless transmitter WT-7
  • Built-in focus stacking: up to 300 pictures with up to 10 levels of focusing steps (still need external software)
  • Price will be CNY 23,999 or around $3,600 (source: Chinese forum)
  • RAW sizes: small, medium, large
  • New 1:1 mode
  • New natural light AWB
Sample Photos:
 

Gear Talk - Wide Angle Lenses and Travel Friendly Systems

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First Impressions of the Canon 6D Mark II, Fuji X-T2, Irix 15mm f/2.4, Sigma 14mm f/1.8, Samyang 14mm f/2.8, Rokinon 35mm f/1.8, DJI Spark and a discussion of the best travel camera system. Which of these items are you most interested in hear/seeing a full review about?https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwoprlMPzsESee a complete list of the gear I am taking to Joshua Tree for Star Photography - https://kit.com/photorectoby/joshua-tree-adventure

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge - Monument

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This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_monumentA monument in your area may gain the focus of tourists but they are there because it’s neat, historical, and they can get plenty of photos. Your challenge this week was the same, but to put your own creative spin on things.Next Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_nightFind out more about upcoming challenges and past winners at photorec.tv/prtvYou can follow Photorec.TV on Instagram at @Photorec.tv and the team:

Team FeatureTeam FeatureTeam Feature
Toby’s Features:

Your framing here, the light - there is something that pulls me in and I love it.

I puzzled over this shot for a minute- I couldn’t understand where you got this large still water from - then I realized the fountains are OFF. I have never seen this shot and that's a awesome + this is a beautiful shot!

Roy’s Features:

While more of a classic shot it’s a great long exposure with the sunset. You exposed it just enough where the monument itself still has a bit of shadow detail with the lights hitting it.

A great city scape shot showing the monuments towering over town. I like that you went B&W as it focuses more on structure then the brightly colored city lights.

I like that you thought out of the box! It’s a neat shot but you can clone out those leaves in the corner.

Sigma 135mm f1.8 A Fantastic Portrait Lens

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 https://youtu.be/Zbc7P9NQh14 Before we get into the specifics of this lens let’s chat for a minute about portrait lenses. Some of you might be thinking - I thought the 50mm lens was the best for portraits. And some of you might be thinking - I thought the 85mm was best for portraits, and those focal lengths are really nice, along with the 24, 35, 200 and, the 135mm. Generally, it is accepted that longer focal lengths provide a more flattering look for people. Some of you might not like that over simplification because truthfully it is the distance from subject to the camera that really impacts the look you get. SO a better way to describe this- a lens like the 135mm allows you to fill the frame with your subject and be at a distance that gives very pleasing results. That coupled with the fact that Sigma 135mm ART offers f/1.8, is exceptionally sharp wide open AND is weather sealed. And like the other Sigma lenses in the ART series is well built, has no issues with flaring or chromatic aberration. I also found autofocus to be snappy. The Sigma 135mm ART is also relatively affordable at $1400 which leads me back to my original statement - this is quite possibly the best portrait lens for outdoor photographers who own Canon or Nikon cameras.

this is quite possibly the best portrait lens FOR OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPHERS WHO OWN Canon or Nikon CAMERAS.

Inside I think you will find yourself running out of space except for the tightest headshots, unless you have a larger studio space. And while I did mostly shoot and test this lens on a Sony a7Rii using the Sigma MC-11 adapter, I can’t recommend it, Eye AF works but it is slow and autofocus, in general, is slow with more hunting than I would like. My MC-11 firmware is up to date with the Sigma 135 on the compatible list but it seems to need more work. On Canon or Nikon you will be just fine though it's possible you will need to do some micro focus adjustments and or use the Sigma dock that this lens is compatible with. While I have not personally compared the Sigma 135 f/1.8 to the Canon 135mm f/2 I know from reviewers I trust that the Sigma is sharper, especially at the edges and doesn’t have issues with chromatic aberration that you do see in the Canon. And the Canon 135L is not weather sealed.Buy the Sigma 135mm ART from B&H Photo $1,399Full Raw Downloads
Outdoor portrait photographers who like to shoot backlit or get shots with wonderfully creamy bokeh that are rich in colors and contrast - this lens is awesome, however, If you are a Sony user hoping to use this with the MC-11 adapter, I can’t recommend it at this time.What’s your favorite portrait lens?My Favorite Portrait LensesBuy the Sigma 135mm ART from B&H Photo $1,399 (your use of these links supports our work here - we could not do this without you!)

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge - Symmetry

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This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_symmetrySymmetry in your photos was the challenge this week, a bit of a tricker topic but you can find plenty of options with architecture or even nature. Bonus points for those that thought out of the box, such as birds hitting the water and catching the reflection. Next Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_monumentFind out more about upcoming challenges and past winners at photorec.tv/prtvYou can follow Photorec.TV on Instagram at @Photorec.tv and the team:

Team FeatureTeam FeatureTeam Feature
Toby’s Features:

You took something simple and everyday and presented it in an awesome way!

Roy’s Features:

A great little bit of nature thinking out of the box in this great closeup

With Back to the Bricks happening while we’re doing this show I love this shot!

Hands-on Nisi Filter System for Long Exposures

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIJnUuIhy-wI have used the Nisi Filter System for over a year now and think this is the best system out there.To start you pick up the V5 Pro kit for $180 - I recommend you purchase from B&H PhotoNisi Filters V5 Pro This includes a nice protective case, high-quality circular polarizer that is integrated into the 82mm ring, the filter holder and adapter rings (that allow the holder to be used with lenses that have 67mm, 72mm, or 77mm front filter threads. Additional rings are available for purchase)I recommend you add:

The 6 stop allows you to easily do long exposures in cloudy conditions or near sunrise/sunset. If you want to achieve long exposures in bright conditions pick up the Nano IRND 3.0 Filter (10 Stop) [Buy from B&H Photo]  The Nisi V5 Pro holder is their latest edition and it's improved over the original. Earlier models were very difficult to slide the glass plates in/out of and this updated version is much better while still holding them securely in place.Advantages of Nisi over LeeThe NISI system comes in a nice leather carrying case everything is protected and a silent soft magnetic latch makes it easy to access. Downside - it is a little bulkyNisi offers an integrated circular polarizer often times when I'm using these filters I'm photographing water and I do want to use a circular polarizer to control or cut the amount of Reflections and it's so easy to rotate with little dials on the edge of the filter holder.The Nisi system comes with a variety of adapters that allow you to use it with lenses- 67mm, 72mm, 77mm, and 82mm Adapter Rings. Additional adapter rings are available for purchase. Quality - Extremely sharp and no color casts. I found the Lee system to have strong cool or blue color casts in their stronger ND filters. Why do I recommend the NISI system over stacking several circular filters?

  • Flexibility- this system allows me to use graduated filters AND circular polarizers together and easily.
  • no vignetting even on my widest lenses.

Iceland Travel - 2017

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Sometimes it feels like everyone you know has been or is in Iceland - if you haven't visited you might be wondering why - is it the Donuts?[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_T-30mjDCg&feature=youtu.be[/embed]

Shots from Iceland!

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Full Itinerary from the trip -Day 1: Started in REYKJAVIKDay 2:  GULLFOSS / STROKKUR GEYSER / SKÁLHOLT CHURCHDay 3: BARNAFOSSAR WATERFALL & AKUREYR / LAKE MYVATNDay 4: LAKE MYVATN / GODAFOSSDay 5: LAKE MYVATN / DETTIFOSS/ HÖFNDay 6: HÖFN/ JÖKULSARLON GLACIER LAGOON / HÖFNDay 7: HOFN/ VATNAJÖKULL GLACIER/ VIKDay 8: VIK/VESTMANNAEYJAR (B)Day 9: VESTMANNAEYJAR /HEIMAEY / VESTMANNAEYJARDay 10: VESTMANNAEYJAR / SELFOSS/ REYKJAVÍKDay 11: REYKJAVÍKDay 12: Departures from REYKJAVÍKJoin us on a future trip! 

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge - Nature

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This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_natureA ton of lovely summer shots for this week’s #PRTV_nature challenge. Your chance to get out for some wild shots, I like nature as an open topic since you can focus on what you’d like going for wildlife, landscapes, macro, and more. From cute baby fawn to the skeleton of a great blue whale we had some great shots this week and thanks for entering.Next Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_symmetryFind out more about upcoming challenges and past winners at photorec.tv/prtvYou can follow Photorec.TV on Instagram at @Photorec.tv and the team:

Team FeatureTeam FeatureTeam Feature
Toby’s Features:

Roger continues to impress with his tack sharp shots of birds in flight - not an easy task. Love the birds eye in the shot.

Roy’s Features:

Getting up early pays off for some great early golden light and I love the contrast between sky and mountain.

A cute shot! Keeping it to the bottom left in composition gives it a lot of open space and lets the focus fall on the eye.

Lunch time! #parakeet #bird #prtv_nature #prtv #canon #canon_photos #nature #thisiscostarica #descubrecostarica

A post shared by Emanuel Agüero (@emanuel_aguerom) on

Shooting in full sun isn’t necessarily a bad thing and this nice shot helps a ton with the haze coming in that day.

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge - Vehicles

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This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_vehiclesAs Back to the Bricks starts up here in Michigan there’s plenty of car shows going on to shoot vehicles. Planes, trains, or automobiles it was up to you this week to go for a great shot. Bonus points for those that thought out of the box with toys, went for the details, or headed to a scrapheap.Next Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_natureFind out more about upcoming challenges and past winners at photorec.tv/prtvYou can follow Photorec.TV on Instagram at @Photorec.tv and the team:

Team FeatureTeam FeatureTeam Feature
Toby’s Features:

Lovely framing with a hint of motion blur from the camera’s perspective draws me into this excellent shot

#prtv_vehicles

A post shared by CBlaumPhotography (@photoscblaum) on

Love the shutter speed that gives just a hint of of propeller motion

Roy’s Features:

Going for a slower panning shot while moving is a bit challenging but gets a great bokeh

Hands-on Review Canon T7i (800D) vs Nikon D5600

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The Nikon D5600 and Canon T7i (800D) share several specs

  • 24-MP (APS-C) Sensors

  • ISO range 100-25,600

  • 3 inch LCD Touchscreen though the D5600 is a little bigger (3.2") and offers the touchpad function when it is up to your eye.

  • 1080 at 60 fps

  • Bluetooth, WiFi and NFC connectivity - Though the D5600s snapbridge is a little more automated, automatically sending files across - with the Canon it is more of a conscious choice. I have been very frustrated with Nikon Snapbridge in the past - finding it flaky, confusing and downright broken, with the D5600 I have had a very smooth experience and prefer it to the Canon - But the Canon app provides a better experience for controlling the camera.

A few important differences - Nikon offers 39 AF points, 9 cross-type, Canon offers 45 AF points all cross-type - cross-type offer higher accuracy and when you have higher accuracy points the more likely you are to get moving subjects in accurate focus. Canon also offers dual pixel AF in live view - this is a very smooth and capable video focus, also useful for still photos in live view - Nikon’s video focusing is still distracting (it hunts more and is very noticeable when it refocuses) and while it’s a little quieter and smoother with their new AF-P lenses you still don’t want the lens to refocus during video, canon, however, is smooth and SILENT when paired with STM lenses The Canon is faster offering 6fps, vs 5 in the Nikon and more importantly, the Canon offers a deeper buffer - up to 148 jpegs and 24 raw images before slowing down. Nikon slows down at 100 JPEGS and just 8 raws.  The buffer and the additional higher accuracy AF points make the Canon T7i my choice for any type of action, like sports or birds in flight, over the Nikon.  The Nikon is capable of fast focus and operation but you will find yourself limited to very short bursts if shooting RAW. The Nikon D5600, however, has an edge in image quality, especially as the light levels drop. I see a clear difference, the Nikon has no AA filter and provides more detailed images and as you raise the ISO less noise (you can also pick 1/3 stops of ISO - canon is limited to full stops) 

Nikon D5600 Frustrations (Especially for beginners)I find myself spending more time in live view - especially when I have a nice articulating screen that lets me set up for different angles and if you happen to have manual video mode on you are blocked from changing the aperture in manual mode in live view and you can’t select shutter speeds below 1/30 of a second.  There are workarounds, the easiest is to switch to aperture priority or shutter speed priority OR turn off manual movie mode but then frustratingly when you go to shoot a movie you have no idea what settings and no control no matter which mode you use. AND I really miss exposure simultaion when using the Nikon D5600 the T7i does and actually every other camera besides Nikon offers exposure simulation in Live view. When inn manual mode I would like to see the screen change to reflect my exposure and the Nikon only does that if you are in manual movie mode and once again we are back to being blocked from changing the aperture and from setting shutter speed below 1/30 of a second. These two issues are in no way deal breakers but they certainly make the camera more frustrating for me and when I work with beginners, teaching photography all over the world - being able to switch to live view and get that easy feedback of your exposure before you take a photo is a really useful tool.

Summary and Conclusion - Nikon D5600 vs Canon T7i (800D)

Reasons you might want to pick the Nikon D5600 - you value the smaller size, the better image quality (especially in lower light), The additional features like time lapse (Canon only offers movie lapse) and the exceptionally easy and automated Ssnapbridge image sharing. Reasons you might choose the Canon - Video is important to you, the Dual Pixel AF is smooth and sneaky good, you plan to photograph action and or you want a straightforward manual control experience.

Other Options -The Panasonic G85 is even smaller, especially when you start comparing lenses - the micro 4/3rd system stays small even when you have a few primes in your bag AND shoots beautifully stabilized 4k video.  The Sony a6300 also shoots 4k and does very well in low light though it isn’t as user friendly as either of these cameras.   Which would you choose - I’d love to know your opinion?   

And don't forget to pick up a prime lens or twoCanon T7i Strengths

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge - Liquid

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This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_liquidSomething a bit different this week, or another landscape, it was your choice for shooting liquids. It was great that many of you thought out of the box, focusing on aspects of the subject such as reflections, movement, or droplets to get a nice shot. Thanks to those that entered and checkout the rest of the entries at the #PRTV_liquid hashtag. Next Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_vehiclesFind out more about upcoming challenges and past winners at photorec.tv/prtvYou can follow Photorec.TV on Instagram at @Photorec.tv and the team:

Team FeatureTeam FeatureTeam Feature
Roy’s Features:

A nice bit of dew on a freshly watered gerbera daisy.

A nice long exposure, keeping the horizon higher and level in the frame worked nicely versus angling down more into the waterfall.

A wild Scurich appears! Adding a person to an otherwise giant shot already is a nice way to show the massive scale of Iceland.

@scurich at #skógafoss #mckaylive #mckayliveiceland2017 #prtv #prtv_liquid

A post shared by Christye (@bluestreakphotos) on

One people usually skip out on for water is it’s refraction properties, it’s a nice shot that plays with the background.

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge - Landscapes

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This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_landscapesWhile I wish I could be like Oprah and say you’ve got top picks for #PRTV_landscapes, I can’t. I can say though that there are a ton of really great photos this week guys, beyond the top picks below take the time to go check these photos out. Next Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_liquidFind out more about upcoming challenges and past winners at photorec.tv/prtvYou can follow Photorec.TV on Instagram at @Photorec.tv and the team:

Team FeatureTeam FeatureTeam Feature
Roy’s Features:

Nicely done with a reflection and look at the tiny canoe!

#hpow #prtv #prtv_landscapes #visitidaho #idahoexplored

A post shared by Jeff Kuhn (@jkuhn36) on

It’s a great landscape over the water and I like that you used part of a tree in the foreground to somewhat frame the top half of the photo.

The Wood Pond

A post shared by Caroline (@carolineefarrow) on

Roy’s Features:

Nothing screams landscapes more than Niagara Falls and look at the tiny people

You took a nice sunny silhouette of the city and the cloud worked great, starting to cast sun rays

Sunset in Cuba #sunset #cuba #prtv_landscapes #canon

A post shared by Emanuel Agüero (@emanuel_aguerom) on

How to Take Great Pictures in Low Light Without a Flash

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How to Take Great Pictures in Low Light Without a Flash | http://photorec.tvLighting conditions aren't always ideal for photography. As photographers, we don't always have a lot of control over these conditions either. When you're touring a dimly lit cathedral or attending a wedding in a low light reception hall, you can't exactly bring in a bunch of lighting. Sometimes shooting with a flash solves the problem, but sometimes it doesn't. For certain types of photography, you don't want to use a flash. In other instances, flash isn't allowed, such as during a dance recital or in a museum. Learning to take great pictures in low light will help you make the most of low light shooting situations, producing crisp, high-quality photos with minimal noise and grain.How to Take Pictures in Low Light Without a Flash | http://photorec.tv

Select a lens with a wide aperture

The wider the aperture, the more light you're letting into the camera. In low light conditions, the difference between f/4 and f/1.8 is huge. Whenever possible, choose a lens with a maximum aperture of 2.8 or wider (i.e. 1.8, 1.2). When shopping for new gear, look for lenses with image stabilization (IS) or vibration reduction (VR). For many photographers, shooting with a prime lens is the best solution to take great pictures in low light without a flash. You get the wide aperture you need without breaking the bank.For less than $200, you can pick up the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM, Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8D, or Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM. For less than $500, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM is another great option. If you're a professional photographer who shoots in low light settings (i.e. wedding reception venues, concert venues) on a regular basis, it's worth spending more and investing in a zoom lens with a wide aperture as well, such as the Canon EF 24-70mm f2.8L II USM or Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM.Related: Recommended Canon Prime LensesHow to Take Pictures in Low Light Without a Flash | http://photorec.tv

Slow down your shutter speed

The slower the shutter speed, the more light you're letting into the camera. For handheld shooting, it's recommended not to shoot longer than 1/60. If you're trying to freeze action, keep your shutter speed at or above 1/200. Depending on the given conditions, flash may not be allowed, but you may be able to use a tripod. Shooting with a tripod enables you to slow down your shutter speed significantly below what you would be able to accomplish handheld. Using a remote shutter release further minimizes shake. When you shoot with a tripod, turn off image stabilization or vibration reduction. When you're shooting in low light without a tripod, you can keep your shutter speed low by bracing yourself against a wall or other solid object. Relax as much as possible to keep your hands steady.Keep in mind slowing down your shutter speed is preferable for compositions without people or moving objects, such as night landscapes and city skylines. Unless you're trying to create motion blur, your images will be soft without much detail. There are certain scenarios where you may not want tack sharp images or may even want a certain amount of blur, such as creative portraiture or other fine art photography. However, it's important to be aware of the effect you're trying to achieve, so you can dial in your settings accordingly.Related: Shutter Speed BasicsHow to Take Pictures in Low Light Without a Flash | http://photorec.tv

Bump up your ISO

There is a stigma in the photography industry against high ISO. While it's always preferable to keep ISO as low as possible to avoid noise and grain, high ISO range exists for a reason. In low light, it's worth the sacrifice of a little bit of noise and grain to create a well-lit image. When you're shooting with a DSLR camera and fast prime or zoom lens, the noise will be minimal, particularly when you shoot at ISO 1600 or lower. Unless you're printing images larger than 5x7, it's unlikely the noise will be much of an issue. Additionally, a noisy image is always better than a blurry image. You can brighten an image in post-production, but you can't fix blur. Set your shutter speed, and then raise or lower your ISO accordingly.Related: Raise Your ISO for Better Quality Photos

How to Take Pictures in Low Light Without a Flash | http://photorec.tv

Shoot in aperture priority or manual mode

In low light conditions, some photographers prefer to shoot in aperture priority (A or Av) mode. Selecting aperture priority mode enables you to dial in the widest aperture available, ensuring every single shot will be at this aperture. You get a peace of mind knowing your shots will have a wide aperture without having to select shutter speed and ISO for every single image. If aperture priority mode doesn't give you quite enough control, switch to manual mode. For example, sometimes in low light settings, the camera will automatically select shutter speeds slower than 1/60 to accommodate for the low lighting, greatly increasing the risk of motion blur. Shooting in manual mode and selecting both aperture and shutter speed eliminates this risk.Related: Making the Transition from Auto Mode to Manual ModeHow to Take Pictures in Low Light Without a Flash | http://photorec.tv

Shoot RAW

Shooting RAW gives you full control over your image. When a JPEG image has detail lost in blown out areas or heavy shadows, the detail is lost forever. When a RAW image has blown out areas or more likely in the case of a low light environment, heavy shadows, you'll be able to recover some of the detail in post-production. While it's still important to strive to create properly exposed images, you'll be able to retain and recover a lot more detail in your RAW files than you will in your JPEG files.Related: Why You Shouldn't Be Afraid of Shooting RAWHow to Take Pictures in Low Light Without a Flash | http://photorec.tv

Embrace the opportunity to shoot a long exposure

Shooting long exposures isn't an option in all low lighting settings. However, in the right settings, it offers a whole new world of photographic possibilities. Blurring moving water, clouds in the sky, the headlights and taillights on vehicles, or people in a crowd creates a distinct, striking aesthetic that isn't possible with a shorter exposure. Make sure to bring a tripod if you want to experiment with long exposures.Related: Photographing WaterfallsWhen you know you'll be shooting in low light, plan ahead. Bring at least one prime lens and a tripod as well as a small flashlight or other portable light source, so you can access your camera controls without fumbling in the dark.

Do you have any additional tips to help photographers take great pictures in low light without a flash?

Share your insight in the comments!

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Sigma 18-35 f/1.8 Best lens for APS-C Cameras

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The Sigma 18-35 f/1.8 remains my pick for BEST crop (APS-C) sensor. Pairs well with Canon and Nikon. It is also possible to use the Sigma 18-35 on Micro 4/3 cameras, like the Panasonic GH4 and GH5 with Metabones Speed Booster Ultra (Canon EF-mount). Using the speed booster gives you an extra stop of aperture!Buy the Sigma 18-35 from B&H Photo Canon | NikonWant more zoom? The Sigma 50-100 is heavy but also fantastichttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWo3y7_8vcA

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge - Freedom

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This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_freedomWhether fireworks and flags for the US or an old-fashioned jailbreak, via Lego that Toby's son Henry liked, we had some great shots that ran the gambit. Overall some nice shots and thanks as always for entering. Next Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_landscapesFind out more about upcoming challenges and past winners at photorec.tv/prtvYou can follow Photorec.TV on Instagram at @Photorec.tv and the team:

Team FeatureTeam FeatureTeam Feature
Toby’s Features:
Roy’s Features:

I like this shot! When you can, getting close to the water always gets you these nice reflections. 

Grand Teton National Park Photography Adventure

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0ts4wAlKRcWe just spent a fantastic week photographing with Animals of Montana and the beautiful landscapes of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park - Scenery, wildlife and photo tips all packed into this trip report from some of the most beautiful landscapes of North America!Cover Photo from Ryan B - http://www.ryanbarnesfoto.comThank you very much to those trip participants that shared photos with me - You can see more of their work atAdi V - https://www.facebook.com/adivaxmanTim L - https://www.instagram.com/designlucasphotos/Vince T - https://www.instagram.com/bytesofcreativity/Ryan B - http://www.ryanbarnesfoto.comKate M - https://www.instagram.com/kmcaptured/David N - https://www.instagram.com/newbold_d/Follow me on Instagram Filmed withPanasonic GH5Sony A7RII Thank you to the sponsors that made the trip and prize package so awesome!!Round-trip airfare from anywhere in the USA and Accommodations on the trip provided by McKaylive.comMindshift Gear 36L UltraLight BackpackSpider Holster Kit & Spider Holster Hand StrapMeFOTO GlobeTrotter Air Travel Tripod$300 Gear Credit to LensProToGo$500 Gift Card to B&H PhotoOne year subscription to Photorec.tv Silver plan membership

Featured Photos Weekly Challenge - Tiny Planet

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This Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_tinyplanetAs a bit of a mix up this week we wanted you to show us this tiny planet. We had some great tiny planet edits, tilt-shift, macro, and more this week with some neat photos.Next Week’s Challenge: #PRTV_freedomFind out more about upcoming challenges and past winners at photorec.tv/prtvYou can follow Photorec.TV on Instagram at @Photorec.tv and the team:

Team FeatureTeam FeatureTeam Feature
Toby’s Features:

Perfect execution of the Tiny Planet look - love the watery world surrounding a beach island and skyrise! 

Something about the monotone macro caught my eye and pulled me in - love this little guy! 

Good Macro Morning! Later today, on my instagram stories, I will show you the antique-looking clock in my home that is currently the home to three grey tree frogs and a hermit crab. #Homeandgarden can call me when they are ready for a segment on stylish creature habitats for the home. 😉The grey tree frog is a favorite summer pet for my kids because it changes colors from this light white, to green, to a dark brown. We have lots here in Central Pa, but they hang out well camouflaged in trees so you probably only ever hear them. Have you spotted one this summer? 🐸 🐸 🐸 #macro #macro_captures #macrophotography #macro_x #macro_freaks #macro_spotlight #creation @nikonusa @nikontop #nikontop #naturephotography #outdoorphotographer #asi_es_macro_ #macro_holic #macro_highlight #insects_of_our_world #insta180 #thepathtoprofitability #pawildlife #risingtidesociety #macro_parahyangan #macrophotographyworld #majestic_macros #prtv @#pocket_macro #macroaroundworld #macro_art_syndicate #susquehannavoice #excellent_macros #frog #prtv_tinyplanet _creative_pictures Shares welcome to those tagged by me

A post shared by Macro Wildlife • Tonya Wilhelm (@wp.macro.wildlife) on

Roy’s Features:

Tiny people for the tiny planet, it’s a nice shot that really shows the scale of the people. 

A tiny planet! Getting up from a higher vantage point makes for a great planet as buildings pop up past the horizon. 

Going small with this silk moth, I love those antennae!

Good Macro Morning! The polyphemus moth is a giant silk moth. The male (pictured here) has feathery antenna. He uses these to detect the pheremones released by the female. A male can "smell" a female miles away and will fly to her. #mothlovestory . . #macro #macro_captures #macrophotography #macro_x #macro_freaks #macro_spotlight #creation @nikonusa @nikontop #nikontop #naturephotography #outdoorphotographer #asi_es_macro_ #macro_holic #macro_highlight #insects_of_our_world #insta180 #thepathtoprofitability #pawildlife #risingtidesociety #macro_parahyangan #macrophotographyworld #majestic_macros #prtv @#pocket_macro #9vega_naturemiracles9 #macroaroundworld #macro_art_syndicate #susquehannavoice #excellent_macros #macro #prtv_tinyplanet _creative_pictures Shares welcome to those tagged by me

A post shared by Macro Wildlife • Tonya Wilhelm (@wp.macro.wildlife) on

Preview - Canon 6D Mark II

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https://youtu.be/gaSmBmCgV3gPreorder Canon 6D Mark IIPreorder Canon 6D Mark II (Body only $1999 | with 24-105 f/4 II | with 24-105 STM)Best Place to buy used gear"EOS 6D Mark II and EOS Rebel SL2 DSLR Cameras Provide Photographers with Improved Features over Predecessors".Canon’s own marketers couldn’t come up with a more exciting opening statement than - we made them better than the old ones?!?!I have some thoughts to share on the newly announced Canon 6D Mark II.Let’s run through those improved features -

  • 26 Megapixel Full-frame Sensor up from 20MP of the 6D
  • 45-point All Cross-type AF System, serious upgrade from the 11 points with ONE cross type and this AF system is identical to what’s in the 80D
  • Dual Pixel AF for smooth and capable focus in live view - stills or movies
  • 1080 at 60fps but you do have electronic IS - NOTE this is JUST for movies - and identical to what is offered in the 77D.
  • DIGIC 7 Image Processor supporting an ISO range from 100-40000
  • High-speed Continuous Shooting at up to 6.5 fps
  • And YES, YES YES - we have a Vari-angle Touch Screen, 3 inch LCD - do you know how many times I have heard you ask for an articulating screen on a full frame Canon
  • Updated connectivity we see on all the recent Canon releases with Built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth and GPS technology

I have seen this described as a full frame version of the 80D and that is fairly accurate - You do lose the pop-up flash and your top shutter speed decreases to 1/4000 vs 1/8000 in the 80D, disappointing but otherwise this should perform very similarly to the 80D - same focus system, almost the same burst rate - so if you are an existing Canon shooter and you have been waiting for a full frame option with articulating screen - here you go. But is that enough?What may be deal breakers for some -Single Card SD slot - you need to go with a 5D Mark III or 5D Mark IV if you want the peace of mind of two card slots - Wedding and portrait photographers capturing can’t miss moments like the insurance of having these photos saved to two cards simultaneouslyTop Shutter speed of 1/4000 of a second - this isn’t about capturing fast action- this is about being able to use fast prime lenses outside in bright light and a flash sync speed on the low side at 1/180 of a second.No 4K video recording - you know - I work with photographers of all abilities - either through my support group or when teaching with Mckay photography academy and 95% of them are photographers and don’t really care about 4K video or care about video at all BUT as I said in my 5D Mark IV video - Canon at one time was groundbreaking in offering cameras that were great hybrids and competitive in both photos and videos and when you have headlines and youtube reviewers left and right saying No 4k it makes you consumers stop and wonder if this is a good value and while today video features might not matter to you - when you spend two grand on a camera I expect you expect to be using it for awhile and it’s a bit of a joke to not include 4k now and in just a few short months it’s going to feel quite dated.  And as I said many of you don’t care about 4K but can you be sure you won’t care about it next year or the year after? Between the headlines, the tweets the Youtubers - the lack of 4k on this camera will hurt its sales. And no headphone jack makes this a less desirable hybrid shooting tool too. In short - no one and I mean no one should be buying this for video.Let’s wrap this up -Photographers with Canon lenses dying for an articulating screen on a full frame camera- this looks very nice and seriously, I don’t mean to make light of how useful an articulating screen is for landscape and general photography and that is who this camera is targeted at and does represent a decent offering. However, For professionals wedding - family portrait etc - I would consider a used 5D Mark III that can be bought for cheaper and gives you the dual card slots plus the better shutter speed and flash sync speed.Once the 6D ships, I will do a hands-on review. Make sure to subscribe to be notified.I’d love to know your thoughts - is this the camera you have been waiting for. Did they offer enough improved features over the predecessors? What is the next most exciting camera to anticipate - Nikon D760, Sony a7III? Or something else? Leave those thoughts in the comments below. 

Upgrading from the Canon t4i to the Canon 80D

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Upgrading from the Canon t4i to the Canon 80D | http://photorec.tvAfter a little more than four years of shooting exclusively with the Canon t4i, I upgraded to the Canon 80D. The Canon t4i was my entry into the world of DSLR photography and leaving it behind was a little bittersweet. I put my t4i through its paces shooting more than 40,000 images in light levels ranging from harsh sunlight to golden hour to low light in jazz clubs. My photography has included, but isn't limited to, cityscapes, landscapes, jewelry, pets, and food. The Canon Rebel line is well-built with intuitive menus, making it a great option for anyone just starting out with DSLR photography.When you're thinking about upgrading to a new camera body, the question is always will the upgrade really be worth it? Upgrading from a Canon t4i or older Rebel body to the Canon 80D is definitely worth it. Personally, the top four features I appreciate most with the upgrade are as follows:

  • Focus point and focus point systems. You're upgrading from nine single focus points to a 45 point cross-focus system.
  • Top deck display. The top deck display gives the shutter speed, aperture, ISO, Wi-Fi status, estimated exposure level, single shot vs. burst mode, battery life, and number of shots remaining on the memory card.
  • Live screen mode. The Canon 80D offers an intelligent viewfinder with approximately 100% viewfinder coverage, a significant upgrade from the t4i's noisy, slow, and largely ineffective live mode.
  • More ISO settings. In addition to having a slightly higher ISO capacity, the Canon 80D also has more ISO settings. The more ISO settings, the more control you have over your images. For example, when ISO 400 is too dark but ISO 800 is too bright, you can select ISO 500 or 640.

Of course, there are a number of other upgrades as well, such as megapixels, shutter lag, and JPEG and RAW shooting and buffer rates, all of which I include in the review.Finally, I discuss whether it's easy to make the transition to the Canon 80D from the Rebel line and if this upgrade is worth the price. Most likely, you already know that my answer to both of these questions is yes. You'll have no problem getting acclimated to the new menu system and will see a difference in your image quality within just a few days of shooting with the Canon 80D.Read the full post over on roseclearfield.com: Upgrading from the Canon t4i to the Canon 80D.

Do you own the Canon 80D?

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More PhotoRec TV Canon 80D resources:

Hands-on Canon 80D Review vs the 70D, a6300 and more

 80Dvs77D

Reasons to buy the 80D over the 77D

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