Recently a reader asked for ideas to help him renew his creativity. Some of us chimed in with thoughts such as work with a different lens. But I've discovered that even a more powerful approach is to change aspect ratios. After working in 3:2 or 4:3, you'd be surprised how different the world looks in 16:9.

In this podcast I talk about using a Panasonic DMC-FZ8 in 16:9 mode, both for still files (Raw at that!) and for movies. I had a lot of fun, and it really got my creative juices flowing.

Photo of a school yard in Santa Rosa, CA shot in 16:9 with the FZ8, then cropped to 4x8 for printing in panoramic mode on a Canon CP-330 dye sub printer.

Monthly Photo Assignment

I also discuss this month's photo assignment, Intersection. Keep your eyes peeled for elements in life that bisect. You can read more about how to submit on our Submissions page. Deadline for entry is August 31.

Listen to the Podcast

Now that I've piqued your curiosity, it's time to listen to today's audio show titled, "16:9." You can download the podcast here (25 minutes). You can also subscribe to the podcast in iTunes

The Digital Story Podcasts are available for direct download from Apple iPhones. I've created a special mobile download page here. Just load the page in Safari, browse the podcast line-up, and click on the one you want to listen to.

Want to share photos and talk with other members in our virtual camera club? Check out our new Flickr Public Group. It's a blast!

Have you looked at the Park by the Numbers Camera Phone Project? If you have a camera phone, you've got to check this out.

Events! See the TDS Event Calendar for photography workshops, speaking engagements, and trade show appearances.

Technorati Tags: digital photography, podcast, The Digital Story

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