This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,036, Jan. 27, 2026. Today's theme is, "Step Up, Step Down, Step All Around." I'm Derrick Story.

One of the great things about carrying around compact cameras is that you can pack two of them. And the efficiency gets ever better if you can share accessories among them. On the eve of my Mobile Photography Workshop, that's exactly what I'm going to cover today. I hope you enjoy the show.

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Step Up, Step Down, Step All Around

Last week I focused on the OM System Tough TG-7, which I think is a technological wonder, but man does not live by ultra-compact camera alone. So in my everyday bag, along with the TG-7, I have my trusty OM System OM-3. What may surprise you, however, are the lenses and accessories that I carry with it.

Because the TG-7 accepts 40.5mm filters using the handsome CLA-T01 Conversion Adapter ($37 on Amazon) or the affordable JJC Conversion Lens Adapter Ring ($9), I have an stash of cool filters for it, such as the K&F CONCEPT 40.5mm Black Diffusion 1/8 Cinematic Effect Filter and the K&F CONCEPT 40.5mm Black Diffusion 1/4 Filter Mist Cinematic Effect Filter with 18 Multi-Layer Coatings ($17.99). These would be fantastic to use with my OM-3.

If only I had lenses that accepted 40.5mm filters...

The lenses I carry in my everyday kit all have 37mm filter rings:

• Olympus M.Zuiko 17mm f/2.8 pancake prime lens. (BTW: the Olympus LC-37C auto lens cap works on this optic as well).
• Olympus M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8 compact telephoto.
• Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm EZ zoom lens.

By now, you know the answer to this situation: a 37-40.5mm Step-Up Ring Adapter, two pieces for $6.95

With it, every filter that I carry in my bag - diffuser, polarizer, IR - works on both cameras and all of my lenses.

But the efficiency doesn't stop there. My Olympus FL-300R Flash, which is smaller than a deck of cards, offers dedicated programmable exposure with the OM-3, multiple tilting angles, built-in switchable diffusion panel, and two-mode RC wireless connectivity that also works with the TG-7. So I can use it as an off-camera flash with the tough camera, or an on-camera bounce flash with the OM-3.

And last, but not least, both cameras can be recharged with a basic USB-C cable.

Not bad for a kit that weighs ounces, not pounds.

This Week in the News

Both Michael Alford and I have cool TG-6/7 articles this week on Live View. Mine is How to Create Dramatic B&W Infrared Photos with an Affordable Compact Camera, and Michael's is, A Remarkable Compact Camera That's Been Hiding in Plain Sight. I think you will enjoy them both.

US$1.2 billion Leica sale: Is Andreas Kaufmann preparing to exit? as featured on DigitalCameraWorld.com

Ricoh GR IV Monochrome already sold out - with additional cameras not expected till March as featured on AmateurPhotographer.com

The best waterproof camera in 2026: compact underwater cameras for fun and action as featured on DigitalCameraWorld.com

Virtual Camera Club News

Workshops!

The 2026 TDS Photography Workshop Season. We are featuring webinars, online workshops, and in-person events focused on creating impactful images in the company of those who love photography as much as you. Our workshops are like no others, and we think you will throughly enjoy the camaraderie and the tips and techniques.

This week I want to feature the Mobile Photography with the iPhone, iPad, and Mirrorless Camera. The iPhone, combined with a compact camera, is a powerful tandem for on-the-go photography. In this online workshop, we will explore how to pull together these devices to build a robust and enjoyable workflow. We start on Wednesday, Jan. 28. I've just put the finishing touches on the 71-page eBook titled, "Mobile Photography with the iPhone, iPad, and Camera." It will be available today to all workshop participants.

Stop by The Nimble Photographer Workshop Page and reserve your spot today.

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.

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 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.

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 1,035, Jan. 20, 2026. Today's theme is, "5 Impressive TG-7 Features You May Not Know About." I'm Derrick Story.

Our OM System Tough cameras don't get as much attention during the off season. After all, they're designed for our spring - summer - fall adventure trips. But that may change after this podcast when you discover these tips that will keep this wondrous little camera in your pocket all year round. All of that, and more, on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

Tune-In Via Your Favorite Podcast App!

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Podbean Podcasts -- Podbay FM -- Tune In

5 Impressive TG-7 Features You May Not Know About

The OM System Tough TG-7 is amazing for all weather photography - from the pouring rain, to freezing cold, to snorkeling in tropical waters. But it also inherents from Olympus DNA some nifty features that you may not be taking advantage of, at least not yet. Let me show you my 5 favorites.

• Focus Stacking and Focus Bracketing in Microscope Mode - With Focus Stacking, the TG-7 will process the stack in-camera and provide you with a final result that has an extended depth of field. In the Menu settings, you can choose between 3 and 10 frames for your stack, and set a short delay too. For Focus Bracketing, you can choose more frames, but you have to process them later on the computer.
• Art Filters and Monochrome Mode - The TG-7 includes 16 Art Filters, such as Instant Film, Dramatic Tone, Soft Focus, and Vintage. Plus, it has a full-blown Monochrome mode. All of these options are in the Picture Mode menu.
• Full HD 120 FPS and 4K 30p Movie Recording - Yes, it captures slow motion video and 4K with just a press of the red button on the back of the camera.
• Mount Filters with the Optional CLA-T01 Adapter - Accepting 40.5mm filters using the handsome CLA-T01 Conversion Adapter ($37) or the affordable JJC Conversion Lens Adapter Ring ($9). I like adding the K&F CONCEPT 40.5mm Black Diffusion 1/8 Cinematic Effect Filter for a more photographic look to my images. But just about every filter is available in this size, including polarizers.
• Infrared 720nm Photography with Stock Camera - Speaking of filters, add a GREEN.L 40.5mm IR 720nm (R72) Filter for $27, adjust your Custom WB settings and capture impressive color and B&W IR shots at the 25mm focal length.
• One-Touch Digital Compass, Thermometer, and GPS Readout - Press the Info button once when the camera is turned off and you'll be greeted with an impressive readout screen that would make a pilot smile. Long-press the Info button and activate the LED for an emergency flashlight.

Add these features to its all-weather toughness and crazy-impressive macro mode, and you have a versatile pocket camera that costs about 1/3 the price of a Ricoh GR IV, and is worthy to be in your pocket all year round.

This Week in the News

I'm sick and tired of being told to stop taking photos on the street, so I was flabbergasted when a security guard did this! as featured on DigitalCameraWorld.com

Breaking Leica's monopoly: Ricoh releases GR IV Mono as featured on DPReview.com

Peakto 2.6 Tracks Down All Your Duplicate Photos, No Matter Where They Are as featured on PetaPixel.com

Virtual Camera Club News

Workshops!

The 2026 TDS Photography Workshop Season. We are featuring webinars, online workshops, and in-person events focused on creating impactful images in the company of those who love photography as much as you. Our workshops are like no others, and we think you will throughly enjoy the camaraderie and the tips and techniques.

This week I want to feature the Mobile Photography with the iPhone, iPad, and Mirrorless Camera. The iPhone, combined with a compact camera, is a powerful tandem for on-the-go photography. In this online workshop, we will explore how to pull together these devices to build a robust and enjoyable workflow. We start on Wednesday, Jan. 28.

Stop by The Nimble Photographer Workshop Page and reserve your spot today.

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.

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 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.

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.

Coffee in the morning, tea in the afternoon, maybe a cocktail before dinner... and yes, lots of water in between. I've been testing a device that can handle all of these, and it does so in a compact, easy-to-transport container: the Hibear 32oz All-Day Adventure Flask.

It looks great on the kitchen counter, and it's completely at home on the road. I've been using mine for pour-over coffee in the morning and green tea in the afternoon. The Hibear comes with all the attachments your need except for the #2 paper filters for the cafe.

Pour-over has been my camping go-to for years. But it was one mug at a time, and the coffee cooled quickly if left unattended for cooking and other chores. With the Hibear, the brew is stored in a double-walled stainless steel container that holds up to three mugs, and I only pour out what I need at the moment. The remaining coffee stays hot until I'm ready for it.

The clever system works by unscrewing the top part of the flask, inverting it, screwing it into the multipurpose attachment, then adding the paper filter and coffee. I boil water using my Stoke Voltaics Electric Kettle, pour it over the grounds into the insulated container, re-invert the top, seal everything up until I'm ready to enjoy a cup of piping hot coffee.

The kit also includes a micro-perforated steel basket that also connects to the multipurpose attachment. I use it for brewing loose-leaf tea. Once again, everything stays hot until I'm ready to enjoy it.

If I want to change gears and go cold, I can use the Thermal Core that I prefreeze. It also screws into the multipurpose attachment. The advantage of using this instead of ice is that the drink stays cold, but doesn't get diluted as the ice melts. This works with tea, cocktails, and even soft drinks.

When I'm out and about, I like to drink coconut water diluted 1:1. Using the Thermal Core, the drink remains exactly as I mixed it, hours later, and it's still refreshingly cold. Once the day is done, I rinse off the core, dry it, and store it in the freezer so it's ready for the next adventure.

On the bottom of the container is a silicone sleeve that can slide off and be used as a drinking cup. Removing it reveals the commissioned artwork for that model of container. It's a nice touch.

The entire kit weighs 2.18 pounds, is 11" tall, 3.7" wide, with a 32-ounce capacity. All of the materials are top quality, and replacement parts are available if needed, including an extra set of silicone gaskets.

The Hibear 32oz All-Day Adventure Flask Kit is available for $95, and there are several design options. I've been using mine at home and on the road, and love it!

Other Articles in This Series

The Bluetti Elite 30 V2 Portable Power Station Review

The Stoke Voltaics Nomad Cooking System Review - Camp Meals Reinvented

The Bluetti AC70 Power Station Review - Off-the-Grid Freedom.

Perfect for SUV Camping - The Bodegacooler 36L Car Refrigerator Review.

Roadtripping with the BODEGAcooler Mini 12V Portable Fridge/Freezer - A Review.

Hot Coffee, Soup, on the Road with this Portable Electric Kettle.

A Hands-On Review of the TentBox Go Roof Top Tent.

The BodegaCooler Dual-Door 48-Quart Review.

The Hele Box Car Camping Platform Review.

Author's Note

The links in this article are included as a convenience for the reader. They are affiliate links, and they help support my research and publishing. Thank you for using them.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,034, Jan. 13, 2026. Today's theme is, "Get Your Photo Trade Show on in 2026." I'm Derrick Story.

I was going to start this episode by reporting on the photo news from CES 2026, only to discover there was none. Wow. Fortunately there are some excellent events coming up that will scratch our trade show itch. And I'm going to cover the best ones on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

Tune-In Via Your Favorite Podcast App!

---

Apple Podcasts -- Spotify Podcasts -- Stitcher

Podbean Podcasts -- Podbay FM -- Tune In

Get Your Photo Trade Show on in 2026

Here are my calendar-worthy events on tap for 2026. Most of then are in the first part of the year, so if you're interested, I would start planning now.

Imaging USA 2026: Premier industry trade show (Nashville, TN, Jan 11-13). The final day is today (Tuesday, Jan. 13), so if you're in the area you can still catch talks and Expo Hall.

CP+ (Camera & Photo Imaging Show): "CP+ 2026," the world premiere show for cameras and photo imaging, will be held at PACIFICO Yokohama from Thursday, February 26 to Sunday, March 1, 2026. It features a wide range of exciting programs including new product showcases from leading brands, talk sessions, photo exhibitions, workshops, and ZINE markets.

WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International): WPPI 2026 is scheduled for March 1-5, 2026, at The Rio in Las Vegas, featuring keynote speaker Annie Leibovitz and the annual trade show with hands-on gear and industry insights. The event includes conference sessions, the Icon Awards, and the main expo floor, with specific times for registration, the show, and award ceremonies running throughout those dates.

The Photography & Video Show: UK event covering gear, business, fine art, 14-17 March 2026 at the NEC Birmingham. The Photography & Video Show is the event for anyone passionate about photography, video or content creation. Thousands of visual storytellers visit over four days to try and buy the latest camera kit and accessories, get tips and inspiration from big names, connect with each other - and enjoy a great day out!

BILD Expo: Javits Center, NYC. No announcement yet for 2026, but was in June 2025.

Paris Photo: Paris Photo is the world's largest art fair dedicated to photography and image-based art. It has served as a leading platform for over 25 years for the exploration of the medium. (Nov 12-15).

This Week in the News

Fujifilm's latest Instax instant camera has a new trick: movies as featured on DPReview.com

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Is Not Discontinued in the US as featured on PetaPixel.com

Will We Finally See Canon's Retro Camera This Year? as featured on FStoppers.com

Virtual Camera Club News

Workshops!

The 2026 TDS Photography Workshop Season. We are featuring webinars, online workshops, and in-person events focused on creating impactful images in the company of those who love photography as much as you. Our workshops are like no others, and we think you will throughly enjoy the camaraderie and the tips and techniques.

This week I want to feature the Mobile Photography with the iPhone, iPad, and Mirrorless Camera. The iPhone, combined with a compact camera, is a powerful tandem for on-the-go photography. In this online workshop, we will explore how to pull together these devices to build a robust and enjoyable workflow. We start on Wednesday, Jan. 28.

Stop by The Nimble Photographer Workshop Page and reserve your spot today.

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.

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 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.

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 1,033, Jan. 6, 2026. Today's theme is, "I Thought My iPhone Shots Were Fine, Until I Didn't." I'm Derrick Story.

As I mentioned last week, my iPhone has saved me countless times. Plus, it's so convenient. So much so, that when I'm working on an article, I often pull it out of my pocket for a few quick illustration snaps. But then, I had an interesting revelation that caused me to recalibrate. I'll share that story on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

Tune-In Via Your Favorite Podcast App!

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Apple Podcasts -- Spotify Podcasts -- Stitcher

Podbean Podcasts -- Podbay FM -- Tune In

I Thought My iPhone Shots Were Fine, Until I Didn't

Here's the story about using my iPhone for product illustrations for an article that I was working on. By chance, I redid a few of the images with my Fujifilm X100V. And boy, did I notice a difference.

This Week in the News

The Compact Camera Comeback Is Real: Why People Want Dedicated Cameras Again as featured on FStoppers.com

"Until a photo is printed, it's just a jumble of binary code buried on a hard drive." It's time to be your own biggest fan and start printing your favorites! as featured on DigitalCameraWorld.com

Belkin's camera grip power bank is a few upgrades away from being a must-have as featured on TheVerge.com

Virtual Camera Club News

Workshops!

The 2026 TDS Photography Workshop Season. We are featuring webinars, online workshops, and in-person events focused on creating impactful images in the company of those who love photography as much as you. Our workshops are like no others, and we think you will throughly enjoy the camaraderie and the tips and techniques.

This week I want to feature the Mobile Photography with the iPhone, iPad, and Mirrorless Camera. The iPhone, combined with a compact camera, is a powerful tandem for on-the-go photography. In this online workshop, we will explore how to pull together these devices to build a robust and enjoyable workflow. We start on Wednesday, Jan. 28.

Stop by The Nimble Photographer Workshop Page and reserve your spot today.

And don't forget... This coming Saturday we have our first webinar of the year: How to Make the Most of Your Workshop Experience. 9am Pacific/12 noon Eastern. Only $10 for this event (sign up using the link on our workshops page) or free for Inner Circle Bold Members (send me an email to get on the list).

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.

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 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.

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.