My M1 MacBook Pro, vintage 2021, had been a good soldier for me. It was my first Apple Silicon processor, which opened a whole new universe of power and battery life. There were ports everywhere, including a SD card slot. And the screen was beautiful.

So I traded it in and put the money toward a brand new 13" M4 MacBook Air.

My photographer friends were surprised by this move. A MacBook Air did not seem like the right choice for running a business that depended on apps such as Capture One Pro, Lightroom, and Final Cut, not to mention audio software for the podcast.

"Plus, what about the ports? And there's no SD card reader!"

My response: this was not a decision that I took lightly. I researched my options and made a choice based on not only what I wanted, but what would work as well. They were interested in those reasons. And I thought you might be too.

What I Want from My Laptop

My overriding goal is to travel as light as possible. This influences my camera choices, lens options, and yes, post-processing tools. I carry around an OM System OM-3 and I love the iPad mini 7. It doesn't make sense to lug around a heavy laptop if I don't need to.

That's why my 2021 MacBook Pro just wasn't making as much sense as it once did. And with the evolution of the Air, I thought a switch might be feasible. Here are some of the factors I considered.

Nimble Size and Weight

I'm on the road quite a bit facilitating workshops and taking pictures. The MacBook Pro felt like a beast compared to the 13" M4 Air that I'm typing on right now. The difference between its 3.5 pounds vs the Air's 2.7 pounds does sound like much, but in real world use, it's substantial. My backpack, in particular, feels so much lighter.

The physical dimension difference is noticeable too. The MB Pro is 0.61 inch thick, 12.31 inches wide, and 8.71 inches deep. The Air is only 0.44 inch thick, 11.97 inches wide, and 8.46 inches deep. Again, that might not sound like a big difference, but The M4 Air fits in bags that the MacBook Pro did not. I'm no longer running into the problem of "it's just a little too big."

Processing Power

Compared to an M1 Pro processor, you wouldn't think that the 10-core M4 performance would be that discernible. And for tasks like web browsing, it isn't.

But when I set up an Export job in Capture One Pro and it's done so quickly that I was thinking that I forgot to initiate it, the speed difference is striking. I've found myself double checking folders to see if anything was happening only to discover the task was completed and all the images were there.

After a couple weeks of use, I can confidently say that the M4 MacBook Air has all the horsepower I need, and more, for my work.

You may be wondering about my configuration. I settled on the 10‑core CPU (4 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores) with the 10‑core GPU, 24GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD. The cost was $1,599. Subtract the $810 trade-in, and my outlay for the new laptop was $789.

What I'm Giving Up

One of the prime motivators for the 2021 MacBook Pro purchase was the return of the built-in SD card slot, HDMI port, and three Thunderbolt 4 ports (two on the charging side and one on the HDMI side). My prior MacBook Pro had an Intel processor with four Thunderbolt ports and nothing else.

But the world was different then. USB-C was not ubiquitous. So I was always fooling around with adapters and dongles. These days, my iPhone, iPad, and all of my cameras are USB-C. One cord works for all of them. And technologies like AirDrop and AirPlay reduce the need for cables and adapters.

The MacBook Air has two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports with support for charging, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 4 (up to 40Gb/s), and USB 4 (up to 40Gb/s). It adds the same MagSafe charing port that my Pro had.

The extra ports don't seem as important as they used to be. I use a svelte Acer USB-C card reader for all my devices. It fits in my jeans coin pocket. I carry a USB-C cable that connects everything to everything, even my 15" 4K display that I use on occasion.

There are a couple of other specs I was curious about, such as 500 nits of brightness for the M4 Air vs. 1,000 nits for the M1. The Air refreshes at 60 Hz vs 120 Hz for the MB Pro. In real world use, I haven't thought about the differences. I could see situations where these specs could be important. Fortunately for my work, it doesn't seem to matter.

When I Do Need More Screen Real Estate

The new M4 MB Air upped its game with display support. It simultaneously supports full native resolution on the built-in display at 1 billion colors and up to two external displays with up to 6K resolution at 60Hz. It provides Thunderbolt 4 digital video output and support for native DisplayPort 1.4 output over USB-C.

With just one USB-C cable I can connect my 15" 4K display. And if I wanted, even add another. Plug and play. Honestly, it couldn't be easier.

Smile, It's Showtime

A welcome improvement with the M4 Air is the 12MP Center Stage camera with support for Desk View and 1080p HD video recording. Coupled with the three-mic array, I can Zoom from anywhere that has Internet, and look and sound great without any extra gear.

This is a noticeable upgrade from the previous 1080p FaceTime HD camera that I was using on the M1.

This is one of those areas that I so appreciate the feature improvements. It wasn't that long ago that I had to pack a webcam and external mic for teaching online away from my studio. Now, I open the M4 Air, launch Zoom, and I'm ready to go.

And Finally, Just a Few Little Nerdy Things

The M4 Air also incorporates wireless upgrades over the 2021 MBP with Wi-Fi 6E vs WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3 vs 5.0. The M1 provided 11 hours of wireless Web compared to 15 hours of life for the M4 Air.

My Bottom Line

I would never have dreamed that I could switch from a MacBook Pro to an Air and be happier. But I am.

My productivity is just as good, if not better. I'm traveling lighter than ever. Plus, the Midnight MacBook Air is the most handsome laptop I've ever used.

I use my cameras and computers to make a living. But consumer electronics have improved to the point where professionals can use them, saving money and traveling lighter.

The 13" M4 MacBook Air is a perfect example of this.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,001, May 27, 2025. Today's theme is, "Half Digital, Half Analog - The Fujifilm X half Review." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

2025 is establishing itself as the year of the creative camera. We started with the Sigma BF, then Fujifilm GFX100RF, and now the Fujifilm X half. Nothing boring in this lot! And whether or not you decide to purchase the new X half, you're bound to appreciate the thought that went in to it. I'll share my highlights in today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

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Half Digital, Half Analog - The Fujifilm X half Review

When I first saw the handsome Fujifilm X half compact camera, there was an instant attraction. The clean lines with a distinct Leica vibe, uncluttered by the lack of knobs, dials, and buttons. It's a camera that begs to be touched.

And it's also a device unlike anything I've previously reviewed. In essence, the X half poses as an analog camera with digital underpinnings. With 13 film simulation choices and 26 filters, photographers can create images that tap Fujifilm's long history of color science, then add grain, flare, and even the classic date stamp in the lower right corner.

The X half insists that you create in-camera. There's no RAW option for post-processing manipulation. You cast the spell with its settings, then wait for the magic to appear.

In classic half frame tradition, holding the camera normally means that you're composing a vertical shot. After capture, send the image to your smartphone for all of the usual sharing options.

But unlike your smartphone, beneath that beautiful exterior beats the heart of a 1" sensor, paired with an excellent Fujinon 32mm single focal length lens. The resulting picture quality is far beyond what a half frame film camera could ever produce.

Basic Specifications

There's a lot to unpack here. But first, let's take a look at the basic specs.

• Resolution: 17.74 million pixels
• Exposure comp: -3.0EV~+3.0EV 1/3EV step (Movie '-2.0EV~+2.0EV 1/3EV step)
• Sensor size: 13.3mm x 8.8mm (1 inch) with primary color filter
• LCD monitor: 2.4 inch Touch Screen Color LCD Monitor, Approx. 0.92 million dots
• Image size: 3648 × 4864 in single frame mode, 7296 x 4864 in 2-in-1 mode (more on that later)
• Focusing: TTL contrast AF with single, continuous, or manual options
• Lens: Fujinon single focal length lens(35mm format equivalent : 32mm)
• Video: Full HD(3:2) (1080x1440)/24p at up to 50Mbps
• Aperture: F2.8-F11 1/3EV step in auto aperture modes. 1/2EV step in Aperture Priority.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C
• Storage: SD Card (-2GB), SDHC Card (-32GB), SDXC Card (-2TB) or UHS-I
• Metering: TTL 256-zone
• Dimensions: (W x H x D) 105.8mm x 64.3mm x 30.0mm
• Shutter: 15min. to 1/2000sec. (mechanical)
• Weight: Approx. 240g (0.53 lbs) (including battery and card)
• Exposure modes: Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual

Side-by-Side Output

One of the things I admire about Fujifilm is their design creativity. One example is the 2-in-1 Mode where photographers can position a couple of vertical images side-by-side to better tell a story. Tap this mode to combine two still images, two videos, or an image and a video. This could be very effective for social postings.

Film Camera Mode

If you really want to embrace the analog camera experience, the X half can accommodate you - probably better than any other device I've tested.

Film Camera Mode lets you digitize the experience of using a classic one-time use film camera. After selecting a film simulation to use and the a roll size of 36, 54, or 72 exposures, you can emulate an analog-like experience, complete with the need to wind the camera's frame advance lever after making each image, replicating the classic analog photography experience.

The LCD won't display captured images or let you compose on it while in Film Camera Mode. You must use the optical viewfinder. Once you've completed a "roll of film," you can process it via the X half smartphone app.

Another nice touch to further enhance this experience is the film roll window on the back panel of the camera that displays an electronic image of the film cartridge that you're using. I always liked that feature on my analog cameras, and it's fun that Fuji includes it on the X half as well.

Navigating Camera Controls

One of the first things that jumped out at when first looking at the X half was the lack of buttons and dials. The top panel features the On switch, exposure compensation dial, advance lever, and a shutter button (with threaded socket for a traditional cable release).

There's an aperture ring on the lens barrel. A flash on/off switch is positioned on the left side. And the back panel has a switch to toggle between stills and movies, plus a play button. That's it!

So how do you move between exposure modes (PASM), select focusing options, and all the other settings that are needed? Get ready to swipe.

The X half features a touch-screen interface that you navigate using the camera's two rear LCD monitors. Via touch operations you can change image settings and film simulations. Swipe up, down and all around to access the controls you need.

Printing Pictures

It makes perfect sense that photographers interested in an analog experience would be inclined to make prints. Fujifilm does a decent job of accommodating small format output.

The X half will talk directly via Bluetooth/WiFi to select instax Link series printers that include the mini Link2, mini Link3, SQUARE Link, and Link Wide. On one hand, this is great news and we have a variety of printers to choose from. On the other, I have a FujiFilm mini EVO camera that serves as an instax printer for my iPhone pictures, and it isn't compatible. So I would need to invest in an additional instax printer for direct output from the X half.

Also noting that the X half has a beautiful 1-inch back-illuminated 17.74 mp sensor paired with a 10.8mm f/2.8 prime lens (equivalent 35mm focal length of 32mm) - that's produces plenty of quality for bigger output from your inkjet printer. Fujifilm did not cut corners on the imaging pipeline with this camera.

One fun side note while discussing specs: the X half produces a similar angle of view as the one-time-use QuickSnap film camera.

Pros and Cons

I think for the target market, the Fujifilm X half has a lot of positives. Included are:

• Very compact and light weighing only about a half pound.
• Excellent imaging pipeline for a compact camera.
• A cornucopia of creative tools for analog-loving photographers.
• Just enough video capability for content creators (Full HD/24p).
• Superb battery life (880 shots).
• LED flash doubles as a movie light.
• Bluetooth, WiFi, USB-C.
• Threaded socket for cable release.
• Excellent optical viewfinder.
• Integrated "film advance" lever.
• Three attractive design options.

However, if you're outside the target market, these cons will probably deter you from purchasing the X half:

• No RAW format - Jpeg only.
• Missing film simulations: PRO Neg. Std, PRO Neg. Hi, Eterna Bleach Bypass, Monochrome, and Monochrome Ye/R/G.
• Cold shoe on top plate - no contacts for an external flash, not even a cute petite one.
• Fixed back LCD with lowish resolution (0.92 million dots).
• Does not connect to all FujiFilm instax printers.
• Relies heavily on swipe controls for basic camera settings.

Pricing and Availability

The Fujifilm X half compact camera is expected to be available late June 2025 at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $849.99 USD and $998.99 CAD.

Bottom Line

Photographers and content creators have been asking for more creative camera design. Fujifilm listened. The X half is a risky, fun, and innovative tool for those who love film photography.

At $849, however, it has to be more than a toy. And thanks to its quality lens, optical viewfinder, and 1" sensor, the X half is capable of delivering outstanding pictures.

Personally, I'm not in the target market. I'm more of an X100 guy. But I am attracted to the X half's handsome looks and creative options. And with a few firmware updates, I could find myself leaning back its way.

Camera Industry News

Iconic Photographer Sebastiao Salgado Has Died - You can read the entire article on petapixel.com.

Ricoh is finally making a GR IV camera, and it's coming in the fall - You can read the entire article on TheVerge.com.

Virtual Camera Club News

Inner Circle Bold. Sign up for the Annual Membership that's only $75.60 a year, you will receive all of the regular Inner Circle benefits, plus a coupon for your choice of a 2026 Online workshop hosted by me.

TDS Photography Workshops! Reserve your spot now. We have an exciting slate of online and in-person events. If you have any questions, use the Nimble Photographer Contact Form. I will get back to you ASAP.

Creative Camera Techniques led by Derrick Story, starting on June 5, 2025.

In addition to the full slate of goodies I have planned for iPhone photographers, Fuji cameras, Nikons, and more, I'm adding creative techniques for the new OM System OM-3. Photographers will be able to pick and choose techniques based on the camera system they shoot with.

Sonoma County Autumn Adventure Workshop, led by Derrick Story, starting on Nov. 4, 2025.

We will be returning to Safari West African Wildlife preserve, and visiting the world famous Coppola Vineyard, home of amazing wines, rolling vineyards, Academy Awards, an authentic Tucker car, and more.

You can reserve your place of each of these events by visiting our Workshops Page.

The Nimble Photographer Newsletter is now publishing every Thursday. Readers will enjoy a variety of content spanning from short photo essays, to commentary on weekly events, to reviews of the latest and coolest photo gear.

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts! We are having a blast at our new Inner Circle hangout, the private group I've set up at DerrickStoryOnline. We'd love it if you join us. You can become an Inner Circle Member by signing up at our Patreon site. You will automatically be added to the new hangout.

Great Photography Articles on Live View - If you check out our publication and appreciate what you see, be sure to follow us and clap for those authors. You can find us at medium.com/live-view.

If you're interested in writing for Live View, drop me a line at dstory@gmail.com.

The New Donation Kit for Carefree Shipping of Found Film Cameras - If you've discovered a film camera that's no longer being used, our new Donation Kit makes it easy to pack and ship. Just visit the Contact Form on thenimblephotographer.com, click the box next to Donating a Film Camera, and let me know what you have. In your note, be sure to include your shipping address.

Affiliate Links - The links to some products in this podcast contain an affiliate code that credits The Digital Story for any purchases made from B&H Photo and Amazon via that click-through. Depending on the purchase, we may receive some financial compensation.

Red River Paper - And finally, be sure to visit our friends at Red River Paper for all of your inkjet supply needs.

See you next week!

You can share your thoughts at the TDS Facebook page, where I'll post this story for discussion.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,000, May 20, 2025. Today's theme is, "A 20 Year Celebration Episode." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

The TDS Podcast debuted on Oct. 5, 2005. It was my side hustle. During the weekdays I was an online editor for O'Reilly Media. As part of my job I met interesting people and traveled to fascinating locations. I wanted to share those experiences and build a community of photographers. So at night I worked on my website and recorded those early shows. Fast forward 20 years later to this episode, number 1,000. With a little help from my friends, it's time to tell the story about how we all ended up here, together. I hope you enjoy the show.

Tune-In Via Your Favorite Podcast App!

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TDS Podcast 1,000: A 20 Year Celebration Episode

Here's the order of guests, snippets, and interviews.

The intro from podcast number 1 published on Oct. 5, 2005. Plus the story of Scott Sheppard. I dedicated a podcast to Scott on Sept. 5, 2016. It's worth a listen. He was instrumental in helping me launch this show.

Interview with Frederick Van, podcaster, This Week in Photo.

A few words from Jim Kuzman, Inner Circle Member. Jim talks about the friendships he has enjoyed as a result of participating in the TDS community.

Julieanne Kost being interviewed by Derrick Story at PhotoPlus Expo 2008. Photo by Colleen Wheeler.

Jan. 29, 2008 - Interview snippet with Julieanne Kost, Adobe Evangelist. Recorded at Photo Plus Expo in the O'Reilly Media booth. Photo of Julieanne and me by Colleen Wheeler.

A few words from Lawrence Lazare, Inner Circle Member. He discusses the value of community.

Interview with David Lents, Sys Admin for The Digital Story.

A few words from Tim Griffy, Inner Circle Member. He talks about a workshop moment in Durango, CO.

Interview with Rob Knight.

A few words from Sergio Burani, Inner Circle Member.

A few words from Scott Houston, Inner Circle Member.

Closing thoughts from Derrick Story.

Virtual Camera Club News

Inner Circle Bold. Sign up for the Annual Membership that's only $75.60 a year, you will receive all of the regular Inner Circle benefits, plus a coupon for your choice of a 2026 Online workshop hosted by me.

TDS Photography Workshops! Reserve your spot now. We have an exciting slate of online and in-person events. If you have any questions, use the Nimble Photographer Contact Form. I will get back to you ASAP.

Creative Camera Techniques led by Derrick Story, starting on June 5, 2025.

In addition to the full slate of goodies I have planned for iPhone photographers, Fuji cameras, Nikons, and more, I'm adding creative techniques for the new OM System OM-3. Photographers will be able to pick and choose techniques based on the camera system they shoot with.

Sonoma County Autumn Adventure Workshop, led by Derrick Story, starting on Nov. 4, 2025.

We will be returning to Safari West African Wildlife preserve, and visiting the world famous Coppola Vineyard, home of amazing wines, rolling vineyards, Academy Awards, an authentic Tucker car, and more.

You can reserve your place of each of these events by visiting our Workshops Page.

The Nimble Photographer Newsletter is now publishing every Thursday. Readers will enjoy a variety of content spanning from short photo essays, to commentary on weekly events, to reviews of the latest and coolest photo gear.

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts! We are having a blast at our new Inner Circle hangout, the private group I've set up at DerrickStoryOnline. We'd love it if you join us. You can become an Inner Circle Member by signing up at our Patreon site. You will automatically be added to the new hangout.

Great Photography Articles on Live View - If you check out our publication and appreciate what you see, be sure to follow us and clap for those authors. You can find us at medium.com/live-view.

If you're interested in writing for Live View, drop me a line at dstory@gmail.com.

The New Donation Kit for Carefree Shipping of Found Film Cameras - If you've discovered a film camera that's no longer being used, our new Donation Kit makes it easy to pack and ship. Just visit the Contact Form on thenimblephotographer.com, click the box next to Donating a Film Camera, and let me know what you have. In your note, be sure to include your shipping address.

Affiliate Links - The links to some products in this podcast contain an affiliate code that credits The Digital Story for any purchases made from B&H Photo and Amazon via that click-through. Depending on the purchase, we may receive some financial compensation.

Red River Paper - And finally, be sure to visit our friends at Red River Paper for all of your inkjet supply needs.

See you next week!

You can share your thoughts at the TDS Facebook page, where I'll post this story for discussion.

This is The Digital Story Podcast #999, May 13, 2025. Today's theme is, "New Nik Collection 8 and Capture One 16.6 Beta." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

Two venerable photo software packages have rolled out new versions. Nik Collection 8 is available for purchase now, and Capture One 16.6 is an open beta that you can test. We'll take a look at the highlight features to help you decide if an upgrade is in your future. Plus, additional industry news, an Inner Circle Bold update, and more. I hope you enjoy the show.

Tune-In Via Your Favorite Podcast App!

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New Nik Collection 8 and Capture One 16.6 Beta

In this segment, Derrick talks about Nik Collection 8 with reference to an article on FStoppers.com and the DXO website.

He also discusses the Capture One 16.6.0 Open Beta via the CaptureOne.com website.

Camera Industry News

Bird Buddy's new nature camera attracts and records more than just birds on TheVerge.com.

The iPhone Camera Control button was a failure - so Apple is eyeing up Samsung's under-display camera on DigitalCameraWorld.com.

The New York Bild Expo Adds Cristina Mittermeier and Peter McKinnon to List of More Than 100 Speakers on Petapixel.com.

Virtual Camera Club News

Inner Circle Bold. Sign up for the Annual Membership that's only $75.60 a year, you will receive all of the regular Inner Circle benefits, plus a coupon for your choice of a 2026 Online workshop hosted by me.

TDS Photography Workshops! Reserve your spot now. We have an exciting slate of online and in-person events. If you have any questions, use the Nimble Photographer Contact Form. I will get back to you ASAP.

Creative Camera Techniques led by Derrick Story, starting on June 5, 2025.

In addition to the full slate of goodies I have planned for iPhone photographers, Fuji cameras, Nikons, and more, I'm adding creative techniques for the new OM System OM-3. Photographers will be able to pick and choose techniques based on the camera system they shoot with.

Sonoma County Autumn Adventure Workshop, led by Derrick Story, starting on Nov. 4, 2025.

We will be returning to Safari West African Wildlife preserve, and visiting the world famous Coppola Vineyard, home of amazing wines, rolling vineyards, Academy Awards, an authentic Tucker car, and more.

You can reserve your place of each of these events by visiting our Workshops Page.

The Nimble Photographer Newsletter is now publishing every Thursday. Readers will enjoy a variety of content spanning from short photo essays, to commentary on weekly events, to reviews of the latest and coolest photo gear.

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts! We are having a blast at our new Inner Circle hangout, the private group I've set up at DerrickStoryOnline. We'd love it if you join us. You can become an Inner Circle Member by signing up at our Patreon site. You will automatically be added to the new hangout.

Great Photography Articles on Live View - If you check out our publication and appreciate what you see, be sure to follow us and clap for those authors. You can find us at medium.com/live-view.

If you're interested in writing for Live View, drop me a line at dstory@gmail.com.

The New Donation Kit for Carefree Shipping of Found Film Cameras - If you've discovered a film camera that's no longer being used, our new Donation Kit makes it easy to pack and ship. Just visit the Contact Form on thenimblephotographer.com, click the box next to Donating a Film Camera, and let me know what you have. In your note, be sure to include your shipping address.

Affiliate Links - The links to some products in this podcast contain an affiliate code that credits The Digital Story for any purchases made from B&H Photo and Amazon via that click-through. Depending on the purchase, we may receive some financial compensation.

Red River Paper - And finally, be sure to visit our friends at Red River Paper for all of your inkjet supply needs.

See you next week!

You can share your thoughts at the TDS Facebook page, where I'll post this story for discussion.

This is The Digital Story Podcast #998, May 6, 2025. Today's theme is, "New Photos Masterclass - And How to Get a Coupon to Waive the Tuition." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

With iPhone photography becoming a bigger part of our overall imaging world, the Photos app also grows in importance because of its tight integration with the iPhone. Many photographers dismiss this free software because they view it as too basic. But in reality, sophisticated technology powers its user-friendly interface. Here's how to tap it. I hope you enjoy the show.

Tune-In Via Your Favorite Podcast App!

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Podbean Podcasts -- Podbay FM -- Tune In

New Photos Masterclass - And How to Get a Coupon to Waive the Tuition

On my latest scouting trip to the North Coast Redwoods, half of my shots were with a mirrorless camera, and the other half were with my iPhone 15 Pro Max. This division of labor is typical for me these days.

And as my iPhone usage increases, so does my time with the Photos app, both on the Mac and the iOS version. Not only does it automatically back up my images to iCloud and share them across all of my devices, but it is also a flexible editor.

You may wrinkle your brow at that statement, but consider this: If you had an app that combined Apple technology with Luminar Neo, ON1 Effects, and RAW Power, you'd probably be a pretty happy camper.

That's exactly how my Photos app on the Mac is set up. Via its Editing Extensions framework, I seamlessly move between all of these technologies within the Photos app itself. This gives me access to a variety of AI technologies, layers, filters, film effects, and more.

Many photographers don't realize that this ecosystem not only supports their iPhone pictures, but the images from their interchangeable lens cameras too. Then add Apple's LookUp technology, object recognition, and more, and there's a ton of sophistication presented in a user friendly interface.

We're to the point, in my opinion, where it's time for an online workshop dedicated to learning all of these features. And that's what I'm going to do beginning Wednesday, July 9th for the Photos for macOS and iOS Masterclass. For four weeks we will explore all of the technological nooks and crannies of the Photos app.

Now, here's the kicker: You can receive a coupon that will waive all of the tuition fees. I've launched a new program called Inner Circle Bold. If you sign up for the Annual Membership that's only $75.60 a year, you will receive all of the regular Inner Circle benefits, plus a coupon for the Photos Masterclass (a $165 value), plus your choice of a free 2026 Online workshop hosted by me.

Existing Inner Circle members can get in on the action to by upgrading to Inner Circle Bold. Total cost upgrading from a standard membership to Bold is only $21.60 total, for 12 months. And you get the coupon for the Photos Masterclass plus the free online workshop in 2026.

You can upgrade your membership by visiting The Digital Story Patreon Site. Link in the show notes and a tile on every page of The Digital Story.

Once I am notified that you've signed up for Inner Circle Bold, I will send you the course coupon, and you can register without tuition fees. I am limiting enrollment to 20 participants, so if you want to join us, act soon.

I can't wait to share my Photos insights with you!

Camera Industry News

Doug Mills and Moises Saman Win 2025 Pulitzer Prizes for Photography on PetaPixel.com.

What is a LUT? Here's why lookup tables matter for video AND photo editing on DigitalCameraWorld.com.

Canon Just Patented Its Most Insane Lens Ever on FStoppers.com.

Virtual Camera Club News

TDS Photography Workshops! Reserve your spot now. We have an exciting slate of online and in-person events. If you have any questions, use the Nimble Photographer Contact Form. I will get back to you ASAP.

Sony Creative Master Class led by Rob Knight, starting on May 8th, 2025.

This all-new class is designed to help you make the most of your Sony camera. We will dive in to the features, custom functions, menus, and MORE. Each online class will include presentations and tutorials based on years of professional photography experience using various Sony cameras and lenses, PLUS plenty of time for your questions about the system.

Creative Camera Techniques led by Derrick Story, starting on June 5, 2025.

In addition to the full slate of goodies I have planned for iPhone photographers, Fuji cameras, Nikons, and more, I'm adding creative techniques for the new OM System OM-3. Photographers will be able to pick and choose techniques based on the camera system they shoot with.

Sonoma County Autumn Adventure Workshop, led by Derrick Story, starting on Nov. 4, 2025.

We will be returning to Safari West African Wildlife preserve, and visiting the world famous Coppola Vineyard, home of amazing wines, rolling vineyards, Academy Awards, an authentic Tucker car, and more.

You can reserve your place of each of these events by visiting our Workshops Page.

The Nimble Photographer Newsletter is now publishing every Thursday. Readers will enjoy a variety of content spanning from short photo essays, to commentary on weekly events, to reviews of the latest and coolest photo gear.

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts! We are having a blast at our new Inner Circle hangout, the private group I've set up at DerrickStoryOnline. We'd love it if you join us. You can become an Inner Circle Member by signing up at our Patreon site. You will automatically be added to the new hangout.

Great Photography Articles on Live View - If you check out our publication and appreciate what you see, be sure to follow us and clap for those authors. You can find us at medium.com/live-view.

If you're interested in writing for Live View, drop me a line at dstory@gmail.com.

The New Donation Kit for Carefree Shipping of Found Film Cameras - If you've discovered a film camera that's no longer being used, our new Donation Kit makes it easy to pack and ship. Just visit the Contact Form on thenimblephotographer.com, click the box next to Donating a Film Camera, and let me know what you have. In your note, be sure to include your shipping address.

Affiliate Links - The links to some products in this podcast contain an affiliate code that credits The Digital Story for any purchases made from B&H Photo and Amazon via that click-through. Depending on the purchase, we may receive some financial compensation.

Red River Paper - And finally, be sure to visit our friends at Red River Paper for all of your inkjet supply needs.

See you next week!

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