This is The Digital Story Podcast #838, April 12, 2022. Today's theme is "OM-1 First Impressions and Workshop Expressions." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

At last, the OM System OM-1 Digital Camera is in my hands. Of course there's a story behind that. And I'm back from the Humboldt Redwoods Workshop with lots of pictures and memories. But the thoughts I'm going to share are from the participants themselves. Yes,so much to cover today. So let's get to it. I hope you enjoy the show.

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OM-1 First Impressions

The Awkward Arrival

The Empty Battery

First Impressions

• Better menus
• Bluetooth and WiFi with new mobile app
• Fantastic viewfinder
• A level readout that makes sense
• Fast autofocus
• Beautiful LCD
• Super solid build
• Tons of features and options
• New 12-40mm lens is a joy
• Still has all the good stuff that I liked before.

Final Thoughts

Workshop Expressions

Here are some thoughts from those who attended the TDS Humboldt Redwoods Workshop.

Timo - "HDR can look pretty good, oval gradient masks can be rotated, and everyone loves Steve Martin."

Scott - "From Bob, about the Nikon Z cameras and what it's like to move from ND to LA as a teenager.
From Steve, how to bring the right tools for the job and how to ask good questions.
From Fred, how to persevere and get the job done.
From Timo, about street photography, art, architecture, and Finnish-Americana.
From Harold, about infrared photography, history, and Italian culture.
From Jim, about medium format cameras and having a good sense of humor."

Bob - "One of the best learning opportunities for me was the presentation at the end of the workshop. It was great to be able to see the work that the guys produced and the ways it was different from my own even though we were shooting in the same area. I really appreciated the chance to see other people's work and hear their thoughts on it. The interaction among the group on the different photographs was thought provoking and is causing me to look at my own work in new ways."

Steve -"The back and forth regarding Timo's cemetery photo was very interesting. I can see both sides. While thinking about it on the nine hour drive home, I decided that the photo is something that should be shared to everyone. The reasoning behind this is because the photo evokes a very strong emotional response that all or most people can relate to, oppose to a violent, shock response, i.e. a human body ripped in half.It is definitely an intimate photo but it is also relatable to most everyone. I believe you had mentioned that one of the subjects was an "everyman". THAT, is a GREAT word to justify the sharing of the photo. Just my two cents on the subject."

Jim - "One major take away for me was shooting the beach scene in midday. Using the 1000X ND and converting to B/W was out of my usual workflow. Having the challenge of doing this, added another arrow to my quiver."

Harold - "So, what did I learn from another attendee? #1 stay away from logs in the water #2 Make sure your foreground is level, or the first thing to do when editing is level the photo and correct the parallax."

The 2022 TDS Workshop Season

We have great events lined up for this year, and there are a few more coming. Here's a recap of what we have so far:

• April 2022 - Humboldt Redwoods Workshop (physical)
• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event)
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online)
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical)
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical)

You can learn more about all of these events and register by visiting TheNimblePhotographer.com.

Capture One Pro 22 (V. 15.2) Release

Capture One 22 (15.2.0) is a feature release containing new functionality, quality-of-life improvements, performance improvements, new camera and lens support, and important bug fixes.

Major Changes

Keystone Tool redesign (including Auto Keystone)

General User Experience Improvements and tweaks

• Apple Silicon (M1) performance improvements - Preview generation is up to 100% faster.
• Improved Auto Rotate - The algorithm behind Auto Rotate has been improved, providing more accurate results on images where clear lines are visible. This makes it more valuable with, for example, landscape images with clear horizons.
• Crop Aspect Ratio behavior - Changing the Aspect Ratio from the Crop Tool will now immediately apply this ratio to the selected image. This makes it easier and more intuitive to work with different aspect ratios, as you don't have to make a change to the crop for the new ratio to apply.
• Easier access to drop-down menus - Drop-down menus that were previously only accessible by long-pressing their icons are now easier to open. Most icons have gotten a downwards arrow that will open the menu, and all menus can be opened by right-clicking their icons.
• New default collection sorting option - Collections will now sort by Date instead of Name by default. This default can be changed in General Preferences, where both the sorting criteria and direction can be customized. This only affects new collections.

Other

Support for macOS 12.2

Capture One Fujifilm/Sony/Nikon subscribers converted to Pro

Auto Keystone

Let Capture One detect and correct the perspective automatically. By pressing the 'Auto' button in the Keystone Tool, lines in the image(s) are automatically detected, evaluated, and used for the correction. The result is a swift automatic correction with high precision.

By default, Auto Keystone will correct Vertical Keystone. This can be changed by simply selecting one of the other two guide modes to activate the cursor tool. The icon within the 'Auto' button will change accordingly and pressing it will instantly apply the desired correction. Auto Keystone works on batches of images.

Auto Keystone can also be triggered from the regular Auto Adjust functionality in the main toolbar. To do this, tick Keystone in the drop-down menu of Auto Adjust. Note that only Vertical Keystone is available from Auto Adjust.

If Capture One is unable to detect suitable lines in the image, pressing 'Auto' will have no effect.

Bits and Bobs

Only one new camera - Phase One iXM-GS120. A handful of new lenses supported.

You can download this version now!

Virtual Camera Club News

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts!

My Writing on Medium.com: I now have 51 published articles on Medium.com. And if you haven't visited the site, and enjoy good writing on a variety of topics, I suggest that you may want to take a look. You can just go to the home page and enter "Derrick Story" in the search field. And if you like what you read, then follow me!

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 #837, April 5, 2022. Today's theme is "5 Cool Gadgets for My Upcoming Road Trip." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

I am so excited to be loading up the car for a photography road trip. So much has changed over the last couple years for me, and those differences are playing out in my preparations for Humboldt. You are probably planning a roadtrip or two yourself. So let's compare notes on this week's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

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5 Cool Gadgets for My Upcoming Road Trip

I think many photographers enjoy preparing for road trips as much as the adventure itself. A real feeling of satisfaction comes from being prepared to address practically any situation during the journey, and being able to do so efficiently and with great nimbleosity.

In that spirit, here are some changes I've made for the Humboldt workshop.

• The Solgaard Carry On Closet - This is not just any old luggage. This award-winning Carry-On Closet suitcase is engineered with a patented built-in shelving system, USB charging port, and an indestructible polycarbonate shell. The Carry-On Closet will keep you organized anywhere your travel takes you. Other features include Frictionless Wheels That Barely Make a Sound, TSA Approved Three-Digit Lock, and saves 229 plastic bottles from the ocean.
• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 - Yes, I have an electric car that can charge anything, but I can't park it in my room or around a campfire. The Jackery Explorer 300 is the ideal power station for short camping trips and power outages because of its compact size and functionality. With a 293Wh power capacity, it can power small appliances and charge up to six smart devices at once. On the road, it's great for pumping up air mattresses, recharging device batteries, and even powering portable music amplifiers.
• Lectron - Tesla to J1772 Adapter - This one is for electric car buffs, but there are going to be more of you each passing month. Our workshop HQ in Fortuna has EV chargers for customers, but they are Tesla Destination units. No worries for the rest of us how drive other brands because of this nifty adapter that allows us to "fuel up" with Tesla units. The adapter doesn't work with SuperChargers, but everything else. And it going to make my life much easier for this event.
• lebogner Car Eating Tray - This is the best $12 I've ever spent. This sturdy, but lightweight tray hooks over the car steering wheel and allows me to enjoy a meal like a civilized human being while on the road. I use mine all of the time. It's perfect for enjoying my lunch when charging the VW, or a roadside break on a long trip. I can also use it as a laptop tray that makes work so much easier in the car. Once you have this tray, you'll never be able to live without it.
• Thermoflask Double Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle with Two Lids - A good water bottle is invaluable for modern adventure life, and one with a sipping straw makes hydrating while driving much safer. I can keep my eyes on the road at all times, even during a water break. This Thermoflask is a great size (24 ounces) fits in the car cup holder, and keeps your drinks deliciously cold.

Small accessories can make a big difference on the road. I'll be using these as I head north to the Humboldt Redwoods Workshop.

Dan Rubin: Film Photography and Scanning Tips

You can read the entire article on AmateurPhotographer.co.uk

Dan Rubin is a well-known name in the film photography community; as well as being an accomplished film photographer and teacher who works with Ilford, Leica and other big names, he's well established as a top digital creative who was there right at the beginning with Instagram (he currently has nearly 700,000 followers).

AP first met this affable and eloquent Anglo-American photographer on a film photo walk he organised with Ilford at The Photography Show, so we're keen to share his practical and inspiring tips for film photographers - particularly in the sphere of scanning.

When it comes to shooting film, there are some key considerations to get your head around. With digital you are often slightly underexposing in order to protect the highlights; with film you often want to overexpose slightly to get a thicker negative, with a rich range of detail tone and contrast. I found this mental adjustment hard at first, especially when using film and digital cameras together. Your brain has to look at the same light and think about it in two different ways.'

Dan reckons the biggest mistake people make with film photography, whether they be beginners or 'born again,' is not working more closely with film development labs - particularly when ordering digital scans of negatives. 'Understanding the scanning process in terms of resolution and setting your preferences can really help,' he explains.

'Don't just rely on the lab's default scanning procedure - you need to talk with them to discuss how to get the best results, and most will be happy to have this conversation.'

One immediate practical tip is to stick to high-resolution scans, even though this can be more expensive. 'I was comparing lower-res 8-12MP scans with images from my high-resolution Sony Alpha camera, and of course they weren't as detailed. I was also letting the lab decide everything in terms of contrast and white balance on the scans.

The 2022 TDS Workshop Season

We have great events lined up for this year, and there are a few more coming. Here's a recap of what we have so far:

• April 2022 - Humboldt Redwoods Workshop (physical)
• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event)
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online)
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical)
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical)

You can learn more about all of these events and register by visiting TheNimblePhotographer.com.

Grand Teton Axes Controversial Plan to Require Portrait Photo Permits

You can read the entire article on PetaPixel.com

Grand Teton National Park has canceled its plans to require permits from photographers looking to shoot any kind of portrait for clients in the Wyoming park. The changes had been met with criticism from both photographers and First Amendment lawyers.

Park authorities had originally planned to implement new photography policies this summer in response to increased visits from photographers, particularly those shooting wedding photos. Jackson Hole News&Guide reports that wedding permits more than doubled from 150 in 2020 to 325 in 2021, and that complaints had grown as well -- wedding parties were reported for things such as bringing non-native plants into the park as well as asking other visitors to leave the area.

One of the proposed changes that sparked controversy was new permitting requirements for photographers seeing to provide "portrait services" to clients. Those photographers would be required to not only pay $300 for a permit for photo shoots but also send at least 3% of all their earnings in the park back to the park, wear an identifiable uniform during the shoot, and limit their shoots to within half a mile of roads or established trails.

Four prominent photography organizations -- the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA), Professional Photographers of America (PPA), North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA), and the American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) -- responded to the proposed changes by voicing their concerns and sending a letter to Grand Teton National Park to protest the plans.

"This new policy directly violates federal law regarding when a photography permit may be required in national parks and is a violation of the First Amendment," the letter reads before it goes on to explain how the changes would violate established law and freedom of speech.

Virtual Camera Club News

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts!

My Writing on Medium.com: I now have 51 published articles on Medium.com. And if you haven't visited the site, and enjoy good writing on a variety of topics, I suggest that you may want to take a look. You can just go to the home page and enter "Derrick Story" in the search field. And if you like what you read, then follow me!

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.

The last thing you want when capturing hundreds of photos during a shoot is to have everything start to look the same. There are lots of ways to add variety. One of my favorite techniques to mix it up is with an ultra wide lens.

Sebastiani Theatre, Sonoma, CA, moments before a screening of "Pretty Problems" during the Sonoma Int. Film Festival. Rokinon 7.5mm fisheye lens on an Olympus PEN-F. f/3.5, ISO 3200, 1/50th - Photo by Derrick Story.

For my coverage of the Sonoma Int. Film Festival, I packed an inexpensive Rokinon 7.5mm f/3.5 Ultra Wide-Angle Fisheye Lens for Micro 4/3 that's currently available for $219. It's compact and provides remarkable results.

An Rokinon 7.5mm f/3.5 Ultra Wide-Angle Fisheye Lens for Micro 4/3 on an Olympus PEN-F

It's a manual focusing optic, but let's be honest: how much focusing do you really need to do with a fisheye lens? It doesn't take up much space in my bag, but it provides big pictures and a completely different perspective than the other optics I use for event coverage. I particularly like it for establishing shots.

If you want to mix it up a bit on your photo shoots, this is a great addition to your bag of tricks.

Product Links and Comments

There are product links in this article that contain affiliate tags. In some cases, depending on the product, The Digital Story may receive compensation if you purchase a product via one of those links. There is no additional cost to you.

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

This is The Digital Story Podcast #836, March 29, 2022. Today's theme is "A Pat on the Back and a Slap in the Face." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

The four days leading up to Sunday's Academy Awards was a deep dive into great filmmaking as I covered the Sonoma International Film Festive as a photographer for SIFF. In what should have been the crowning finish to the week sank awkwardly to the bottom with a sad display of toxic male behavior. Here's more about the people I met in Sonoma and my thoughts there after.

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A Pat on the Back and a Slap in the Face

Before I take you back to Thursday morning with my first assignment of covering the now award-winning film, Rosie and Frank, I want to say that my understanding of the law is that it is not justifiable to assault another person based on something they say. So, do not count me among those standing in ovation of Will Smith.

OK, let's get to the other side of the coin.

Rosie and Frank

I arrived at Andrews Hall at 9:15 Thursday morning to cover my first film of the festival, Rosie and Frank. In attendance was co-director Peter Murphy and the lead actress. For the next 115 minutes I was transported to a small town in Ireland where a grieving widow (Rosie) finds her footing again with the help of a stray dog (Frank).

The movie provides insights about community, loss, inner strength, compassion, pettiness, and sacrifice. Afterward, the filmmakers shared their insights about the challenges of the project.

And as I left the theater, my faith in humanity and respect for independent filmmaking were glowing. On Sunday afternoon, Rosie and Frank earned the audience award for Best Feature.

Blind Ambition

I saw four more films before returning to Andrews Hall on Friday morning for the screening of the documentary, Blind Ambition, where a team of Zimbabwean refugees turned sommeliers shake up the international wine establishment when they compete in the World Wine Tasting Championships.

Directors Warwick Ross and Rob Coe show us the grit determination, undying optimism, and ultimate triumph of four young men who reinvent themselves before our very eyes. There are no excuses in Blind Ambition. But there is ample display of belief in self and emotional intelligence as these men build a new life for them and their families.

After the movie, co-director Warwick Ross clearly communicated his respect for his film stars and his love of the project.

Blind Ambition went on to win the Audience Award for Best Documentary.

Pretty Problems

Five more movies at different venues before I returned to Andrews Hall on Saturday afternoon for the screening of Pretty Problems. Fresh off a win at SXSW, this crew of young filmmakers had created a comedy that follows a flailing couple on a getaway trip with affluent strangers: down the rabbit hole, and into the most unhinged weekend of their lives.

Word was circulating about the movie after its first screening, and there was a line out to the street to attend the second showing. Most were turned away because the house was already full.

The director, writers, and many cast members were there to watch to audience laugh and sometimes grown as the stars of the movie wrestled with the notion that money does not buy happiness.

After the standing ovation, they stood before the glowing audience clearly moved by the success of their hard work. Big smile, misty eyes, and the revelation that they had a real shot at success in the craft that they all loved so much.

As the photographer covering the story, I try to keep a professional relationship with my subjects. But afterward, I couldn't resist approaching the movie's screenwriter and commending he and his team for such a wonderful movie.

He shook my hand and said, "My name is Michael. What is yours?" Then he thanked me, sincerely, for expressing appreciation for their work. Michael stood outside and interacted with every person who wished to speak with him, and did not leave until folks had had their say.

Pretty Problems went on to win the Jury Award for Best English Language Feature.

Overall Impressions of Thursday through Saturday

I met artists who had been in the business for 40 years and others celebrating their first recognized feature film. When I headed home late Saturday night, I was glowing with pride and respect for a community of artists who represented themselves and their craft quite well.

Sunday Night

Coming off the film festival, you can imagine how excited I was to see the Academy Awards on Sunday night. I had seen nearly all of the nominated films. My personal favorites were Belfast, Coda, and MacBeth.

One of the first things I noticed that night was the biting humor. Some of it was funny, but some was not. I was uncomfortable with the "COVID Test" bit where male actors were brought up on stage as part of a man-hunk bit. They looked uncomfortable as well. This was quite different than my previous three days.

But the ultimate downer was the immature display of male toxicity that transpired between Will Smith and Chris Rock. I might add, Best Actor nominee and ultimate winner Will Smith. It was foul and disgusting.

I'm sure as Jane Campion watched this unfold before her, she much have thought that her movie nailed an aspect of our culture. There is was, a real life Phil Burbank before her very eyes.

I think that it's ironic, that for me in this crazy whirlwind of a week immersed in filmmaking, that I saw the best and worst of its community.

The best in acceptance speeches by Troy Kotsur (Coda), Ariana DeBose (West Side Story), Kenneth Branagh (Belfast), and Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson (Summer of Soul). And the dozens of filmmakers that I met in Sonoma who open-heartedly shared their struggles and triumphs.

Photographers and filmmakers are kindred spirits in many ways. We can learn a lot from one another. And my view is let's not reward those few bad apples whose actions tarnish the integrity of our craft.

Keep an eye out for the movies that I mentioned here. They represent what I respect in filmmaking.

Mac Studio Teardown Reveals SSD is Upgradable, But Blocked By Apple

You can read the entire article on PetaPixel.com

According to a pair of recent YouTube videos from Max Tech and Luke Miani, the M1 Ultra Mac Studio might actually be upgradeable, but only by Apple. The SSD is removable, but upgrades appear blocked on a software level.

Though this practice has become expected, YouTubers Max Tech and Luke Miani discovered a few surprising things after opening up a new Mac Studio to address concerns that it did not appear easy to access the interior of the new computer to clean the fans, as spotted by The Verge and DPReview.

After opening up the computer, which Apple apparently did not make an easy process, they discovered that there is an extra SSD port visible after removing the first layer of components and casing of the device. After just removing the rubber ring on the bottom of the machine and the screws for the very bottom case, the extra SSD port was clearly visible in the corner of the device. The two determined that this meant that if a buyer opted to not max out the storage when placing an order for a Mac Studio, it would theoretically then be possible to add a new SSD in this extra slot at a later date.

In the continued teardown, it is shown that Apple wastes no space with its design, but diving deeper, Miani discovers that even with the extra port, the device still cannot be upgraded as it appears to be blocked by Apple on a software level.

The 2022 TDS Workshop Season

We have great events lined up for this year, and there are a few more coming. Here's a recap of what we have so far:

• April 2022 - Humboldt Redwoods Workshop (physical)
• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event)
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online)
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical)
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical)

You can learn more about all of these events and register by visiting TheNimblePhotographer.com.

Best Enthusiast Mirrorless Cameras for Around $2000 in 2022

You can read the entire article on ImagingResource.com

In this article, we're going to provide recommendations for excellent enthusiast-class mirrorless cameras from several manufacturers. However, we're also breaking up our list of suggestions into two categories. The first one will focus on enthusiast mirrorless cameras priced under $2000, which is a popular price ceiling that many camera buyers are likely to limit themselves. However, when assessing the field of potential cameras to recommend, we noticed that several options are *just above* that $2000 mark, and it would be a shame to leave them out. Therefore, we have a second list of recommendations with a few remaining options priced a bit higher than $2000 but still within this same general "Enthusiast Mirrorless" territory.

• Fuji X-T4
• Nikon Z6 II
• Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III
• Panasonic S5
• Sony A7 III
• Sony a6600
• Canon R6
• OM System OM-1
• Sony A7 IV

Virtual Camera Club News

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts!

My Writing on Medium.com: I now have 51 published articles on Medium.com. And if you haven't visited the site, and enjoy good writing on a variety of topics, I suggest that you may want to take a look. You can just go to the home page and enter "Derrick Story" in the search field. And if you like what you read, then follow me!

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 #835, March 22, 2022. Today's theme is "6 Camera Bags (and no more!)." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

The process of thinning out one's gear is not an easy one, especially when it comes to camera bags. But I am determined to whittle down my collection to 6 essential carrying solutions. Today, I will share the list of my leading contenders, and why I'm hanging on to them. 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

6 Camera Bags (and no more!)

As I've mentioned in the show a few times, I'm in the process of reorganizing one of the rooms upstairs at the studio. This has been a slow, arduous project that is tapping new depths of my patience.

When it's completed, I will be thrilled. But I have a ways to go, and my current challenge is thinning out my extensive camera bag collection. It hasn't helped that I've worked for both Lowepro and Think Tank over the years. But I can no longer justify the wall of bags, many of which are no longer used.

I've used a few guidelines to help my prune. First, if I haven't used a particular item in a couple years, it needs to find a new home. If there are multiple variations of a style, only one can stay. And if it's not in great shape, it's time for a new home.

I then determined the best bag for six different activities: event photography, business travel, family vacation, street photography, workshops, and day hikes. And here are the six survivors to this point.

• Event Photography - Think Tank Spectral 10 - When I first scored this mid-sized shoulder bag, I never dreamed it would be my go-to for events. But it holds everything I need (2 bodies, lenses, flash) without any wasted space. And it looks just as good today as the day I got it.
• Business Travel - Tenba Cooper 13 Slim - This wonderful travel bag was in competition with the Think Tank Vision 13 (which I also really like). The Cooper 13 slides over the handle of my roller bag and looks fantastic. Has a back zippered pocket for my laptop, padded, removable insert for my camera gear, and plenty of accessory pockets. It looks just as good in a business meeting as it does in the airport lounge.
• Family Vacation - LowePro Photo Hatchback 18L AW - This is truly a fun bag that can be used for casual day hikes, afternoon car trips, and chillin' on the plane. It can accommodate both my iPad mini and the 11" MacBook Air (my vacation laptop). It has two large mesh side pouches for water bottles. Plenty of accessory pockets. And it's beautiful blue color reminds me that I'm on vacation.
• Street Photography - Think Tank Mirrorless Mover 25i - There is a lot of competition in this category including the Think Tank Urban Approach 5. But I like the bread loaf dimensions of the Mirrorless Mover that isn't too deep and is just the right amount of wide. My iPad mini fits wonderfully in the inside sleeve. The clever dividers have storage pockets, the top flap can be zippered for security or secured lightly with a magnetic latch (no velcro). Plus handy little side pockets, handsome hardware, rain cover, and a belt loop in the back.
• Workshops - Classic Tamrac shoulder bag - Even though this canvas-styled shoulder bag was made bag in the film photography days, I love it. Big top flap with a removable "film pouch" in the lid, spacious interior that's not too big or small, leather-trim top handle, big front pouch, and securable by both buckles or zipper. I just love the classic design, and it's very functional.
• Day Hikes/Adventure - Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW - In some ways, this is my most dependable backpack. Access pockets on both sides, top, and back. Suspended laptop sleeve inside the bag for ultimate protection, tactical loops on the outside for accessories such as additional pouches, water bottle, or straps for tripod and hiking sticks. Interior is high configurable, grab handles on top and bottom, and built-in all weather cover. If the going gets tough, this is the backpack that I want to protect my gear.

So there you have it: two backpacks and four shoulder bags. It's going to be difficult for me to let the others go. But I have a feeling that I will be just fine.

Video: Mac Studio teardown gives us a close look at M1 Ultra and reveals SSD storage is upgradeable

You can read the entire article on DP Review.com

The new Mac Studio is a great computer. In our review, we called Apple's new M1-powered desktop 'The Apple desktop we've been waiting for.' The new desktop computer looks like a Mac mini on steroids, and it can be configured to extreme, pro-oriented specifications. The new desktop can be built to include an Apple M1 Ultra with a 20-core CPU, 64-core GPU and 32-core Neural Engine, plus 128GB of RAM and 8TB of SSD storage. That option will set you back $7,999. The base model starts at $1,999.

Gone are the days of being able to order a base model of an Apple computer and upgrading it later as you see fit. The Mac Pro, which still comes with Intel processors, is unique in Apple's lineup for its user-replaceable components. Or is it? A new Mac Studio teardown video by Max Tech shows that the Mac Studio is, in fact, upgradable by the end user. Sort of. The computer is not designed to be opened. Max Yuryev of Max Tech decided to disassemble the Mac Studio by pulling up the rubber ring on the machine's bottom. With the rubber remove, you can see four screws. With the bottom of the case removed, there are more screws to remove. Lo and behold, visible without taking the computer itself apart is a port to put additional SSD storage. If you don't max out the storage when you buy the Mac Studio, there will be an empty storage slot available.

On the Apple Store, Apple recommends users to configure the Mac Studio with enough storage because it's not 'user accessible.' However, as we can see, storage is user accessible. Granted, it's not super straightforward, but it isn't that complicated either. RAM, of course, is not user-upgradable because Apple Silicon is system on a chip (SoC). The RAM is built right into the M1-series chip that you purchase. Of course, that hasn't stopped a Chinese engineer Yang Changshun from doing it on an M1 Mac. Of course, compared to that incredibly difficult and risky maneuver, upgrading the SSD on the Mac Studio seems like a walk in the park.

The 2022 TDS Workshop Season

We have great events lined up for this year, and there are a few more coming. Here's a recap of what we have so far:

• April 2022 - Humboldt Redwoods Workshop (physical)
• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event)
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online)
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical)
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical)

You can learn more about all of these events and register by visiting TheNimblePhotographer.com.

Still No OM-1 Shipment

Here's an update about receiving my shipment of the OM-1 with the new 12-40mm Pro zoom

Virtual Camera Club News

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts!

I did get the gig at the Sonoma International Film Festival later this month, as I discussed in last week's podcast. Later this week we begin the job. Will provide an update during next week's show.

My Writing on Medium.com: I now have 51 published articles on Medium.com. And if you haven't visited the site, and enjoy good writing on a variety of topics, I suggest that you may want to take a look. You can just go to the home page and enter "Derrick Story" in the search field. And if you like what you read, then follow me!

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.

It's become more difficult than ever for spectators to bring decent camera gear into pro arenas. The one device that doesn't raise any eyebrows is our smartphone. But is it worth the effort to try to capture sports action with an iPhone?

Well, that depends.

San Jose Sharks match captured with an iPhone 12 Pro Max. Photos by Derrick Story.

The iPhone does a great job for certain kinds of shots, such as wider overviews, crowd activity, and portraits of friends and family in attendance.

But if you want those pro-caliber action shots, it can't compete with a top-drawer DSLR or mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. That said, you can come away with some memorable images.

Get the Best Seats Possible

Honestly, the closer the better when it comes to capturing action with a mobile device. The minute you have to start pinch-zooming for a decent composition, the photo game is over. But, if you can frame a decent shot with the 2.5X optical camera on the iPhone, you have half a chance.

Good Lighting Is Important

Bright, well-lit arenas allow for faster shutter speeds (to freeze the action) and for lower ISOs (to help control image noise). Many professional hockey and basketball venues have very good lighting. You can take advantage of this to squeeze a bit more image quality out of your smartphone camera.

Burst Mode Increases Your Odds

Anticipating when something is going to happen and recording a short burst of frames might yield that magic moment. The iPhone allows you to keep the best frame in a series and delete the others. I highly advise taking advantage of this feature.

I love the mood of this image, but the lighting and motion presented problems for the iPhone. Wish I had my OM-1 mirrorless for this one.

Realize that Some Shots Just Won't Meet Your Expectations

There are often great moments when the lights go down and something special happens. Go ahead and try. But realize that the iPhone is challenged by moving object in dim lighting. You may luck out, but don't count on it.

Final Thoughts

When I don't have my regular camera rig with me, I get the most that I can out of the iPhone. My hit rate goes way down for sporting events, but even if I get one or two mementos from the event, I feel it's worth the effort.

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

This is The Digital Story Podcast #834, March 15, 2022. Today's theme is "Putting Together Your Back Pocket List." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

Sometimes when you make things too big, they don't happen. Take for example our photography bucket list that includes exotic destinations such as Africa and India. Great stuff, but we don't want to sit idle while we wait for them to happen. So in the meantime, you can build your back pocket list. What is that you ask? Keep listening to today's TDS Photography Podcast to learn more. I hope you enjoy the show.

Tune-In Via Your Favorite Podcast App!

---

Apple Podcasts -- Spotify Podcasts -- Stitcher

Podbean Podcasts -- Podbay FM -- Tune In

Putting Together Your Back Pocket List

I've been thinking about the place where we are in 2022. We're able to move about with quite a bit more freedom, but things aren't exactly back to normal yet. We're in this intermediate zone.

And even though I'm not quite ready to get on a plane and fly to Africa right now, I do want to get out. I want to take pictures.

So I was thinking about this concept that I call the Back Pocket List. It's like a bucket list, but much smaller and more attainable. It contains locations that you can reach in an afternoon or on a day off - accessible, but still beautiful.

I started building my Back Pocket List of five places that I like in Sonoma County. And I've set the goal of visiting and photographing each one before the end of the year.

To give you a better idea of what I'm talking about, here's my Back Pocket List:

• Armstrong Woods - There are some wonderful redwood groves in Northern California (we're going to one of the best in a few weeks for our workshop), but Armstrong Woods is in my backyard, only a 30 minute drive away. I've already crossed this one off my list.
• Fort Ross - Was once a true Russian Fort, well preserved, with great ocean views as well.
• Duncans Landing, Bodega Bay - One of my favorite ocean views in all of California (and that's saying something). A great place to bring a picnic lunch.
• Sugarloaf Ridge State Park - Wonderful place for overnight camping, day hikes, and mingling with forest nature. Lots of deer, fox, birds, and more.
• Ferrari-Carano Winery, Dry Creek - A spectacular building paired with superb gardens. Plus, once you've finished taking pictures, you can sample their excellent wine.

So, what photo opportunities do you have within a few hours drive? Consider building your own Back Pocket List and revisit these sites.

And if you happen to have a new camera, oh what fun to test it out and add to your library of favorite shots.

Don't Use iCloud for Long-Term Photo Backup

You can read the entire article on PetaPixel.com

My friend Bill just returned from a family vacation in Costa Rica and shot lots of photos and videos on his iPhone, including some killer shots of breakfasts with local monkeys.

No surprise that once he got home, he checked his iPhone storage and found that it was 98% full. Just a few more snaps and he'd be totally out of storage space.

His solution? "I'll just put them all on iCloud, and then delete them off my iPhone," he told me.

"Backing up" on iCloud and then deleting the photos locally on the iPhone is actually the worst thing Bill could do to free up space. Because once they're uploaded to iCloud, the next time it scans his phone for an automatic backup, it will notice that the Costa Rica pix are gone and in turn delete them from the cloud backup as well.

Ever notice the fine print when you try to delete a photo? "This item will be deleted from iCloud Photos on all your devices."

For pure long-term photo backup, because of these weird, arcane rules, Apple's iCloud is about the worst place to go because it is not designed for that. Apple's help support reps told me over several calls that iCloud is meant for backup of your devices, not just your photo library, and as a way to have the same data available on all your Apple devices, not just the iPhone.

As Apple puts it: "Automatically upload and safely store all your photos and videos in iCloud so you can browse, search and share from any of your devices." Notice the word backup doesn't appear there anywhere?

So Here's What I Recommend...

First, I get the largest capacity iPhone I can afford. Then, second, I choose Optimize Storage on all of my devices. Optimized versions are created for your device, while the masters are stored (and are available) via cloud storage.

The 2022 TDS Workshop Season

We have great events lined up for this year, and there are a few more coming. Here's a recap of what we have so far:

• April 2022 - Humboldt Redwoods Workshop (physical)
• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event)
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online)
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical)
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical)

You can learn more about all of these events and register by visiting TheNimblePhotographer.com.

How to Pose Hands for Better Portraits

You can read the entire article on ThePhoblographer.com

I had no desire to be a portrait photographer when I started learning photography in college. The amount of work it takes to connect with people, pose them, and take a powerful image felt daunting. A few years later, I realized being an empathic human was an optimal job skill for portraits. Connecting with people came very easy once I leaned in and felt the energy in the room. The challenge was knowing how to direct them into a natural-looking pose once we developed a rapport. An even more significant obstacle was learning how to pose hands in a way that makes sense.

As it turns out, hands are a challenge for people on both sides of the camera. Everything can be going right in a portrait image. However, if the hands are stressed or don't make sense, that's the only thing viewers will see. An easy solution is to have the hands at the sides or hide them in pockets. This quick fix can also leave a lot on the table. Knowing how to work with hands in ways that make sense can elevate your portrait work.

More often than not, hands will be soft regardless of where they're positioned. Any stress in the hands will translate as tension. Below are a few tips that to make posing hands easier.

Then the author goes through the following poses and talks about hand positioning for each of them. Here are the poses:

• Sitting in chair
• On steps, stool, apple box
• When standing
• Utilize surroundings when standing
• Have them doing something
• Beauty photography

Very useful stuff!

Virtual Camera Club News

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts!

I did get the gig at the Sonoma International Film Festival later this month, as I discussed in last week's podcast.

My Writing on Medium.com: I now have 51 published articles on Medium.com. And if you haven't visited the site, and enjoy good writing on a variety of topics, I suggest that you may want to take a look. You can just go to the home page and enter "Derrick Story" in the search field. And if you like what you read, then follow me!

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.

I pulled out some B&W prints today to help me answer the question, "Why do I like this type of photography so much?"

Yes, color is beautiful, but sometimes color can be distracting as well. Plus, the appeal of monochrome goes beyond the mere absence of color. It's as though the hues are replaced with a wonderful metallic tonality. There's a visceral nature to these prints. I want to touch them.

B&W images are clarifying. The composition becomes cleaner, the lighting is sharper, they are easy to digest.

Even though most of my film shooting these days is with Tri-X and Ilford, I really like digital B&W with a mirrorless camera where I can choose the monochrome style I want to use and compose through the EVF with that very look. I feel like this makes my framing even stronger. Mirrorless cameras are truly a blessing for B&W enthusiasts.

My current favorite digital cameras for B&W work are the Olympus PEN-F in Mono 2 mode and the Fujifilm X100V in Acros+Y film simulation. I'm also experimenting with the Fujifilm GFX 100S with the Fuji GF 50mm pancake lens. The GFX supports my favorite B&W film simulations plus adjustable grain effect.

Redwood Stump - Fujifilm GFX 100S, Voigtlander 40mm f/2.0 lens, Monochrome+G mode. Photos by Derrick Story.

I capture in RAW+Jpeg using a monochrome style or film simulation. The Jpeg reflects that choice, while the RAW file retains all the color data. In post production, I can decide if I want to use the in-camera Jpeg, or process the RAW for even more dynamic range, then convert it in one of my favorite creative apps such as Silver Efex Pro or DXO Film Pack.

Path in Redwood Forest - Olympus PEN-F, Lumix 12-35mm f/2.8 zoom, Monochrome 2 mode.

But there's more. I do recommend printing the picture on a really nice paper surface. The experience goes to a whole new level. Some of my favorites are: Red River Paper 60lb. Polar Matte, 75lb. Arctic Polar Luster, and Aurora Art White 300. You can review a great menu of B&W printing papers on the Red River Paper website.

After thinking about all of this, it finally dawned on me what I truly love about B&W photography: it allows me to see the world in a whole new way. How wonderful is that?

Product Links and Comments

There are product links in this article that contain affiliate tags. In some cases, depending on the product, The Digital Story may receive compensation if you purchase a product via one of those links. There is no additional cost to you.

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

This is The Digital Story Podcast #833, March 8, 2022. Today's theme is "Inside a Photo Assignment for Hire." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

On Saturday morning I climbed in to the ID.4 and plugged the address for the Fire Department Training Center into CarPlay. Fifteen minutes later I was redirected to an overflow parking lot that required a hike back to the event. Undeterred, I grabbed by camera bag, a cap, and shades an headed to the day's assignment. What happened before this moment, and what transpired afterward is the topic of 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

Inside a Photo Assignment for Hire

I know that some of you are curious about the photo assignments that I work for clients. It's an important part of my job because they keep me in touch with the demands of real world photography.

So I thought it would be fun to take you through the timeline of an assignment that I just completed.

Before I do that, however, I want to tell you a little bit about this event because I think it's very cool and important.

Women's Public Safety Day will provide young women ages 15 to 20 with a hands-on public safety learning experience. This immersive day will be led by local women from EMS, police, and fire departments sharing what it's like to be a woman in public safety, both on and off duty.

OK, now on to the timeline.

• Friday, Feb. 11 - I received an email from the SRJC Communications and Marketing Coordinator stating, "Are you available to cover the Women's Public Safety Day on March 5th? I respond, "Yes, indeed!".
• Friday, March 4 - I receive a follow up email with the scheduled events, onsite contact, and suggested shot list. I prepare my camera kit, charge batteries, and made sure everything was ready for the next morning.
• Saturday March 5 - I depart for the event with an estimated arrival 15 minutes before my scheduled start. Good think, because the overflow parking set be back 15 minutes.

Now, in the podcast I describe the sequence of events that happened for the next 3 hours.

• Sunday, March 6 - I began culling pictures during my first cup of coffee. At this point in the morning, only me and Sylvester the cat are awake. I captured 325 photographs. I whittled down the shoot to 100 images that I thought told the story well.
• Monday, March 7 - I individually adjust each of the 100 shots, output them to full size resolution Jpegs, and upload them to the shared Dropbox with the client. I received word a few hours later that everything looked great, and a big Thank You!

One of the big differences that I noticed compared to the other photographers covering the event was that I use much short lenses and get closer to the action.

'Peek Performance' odds: Every Apple event rumor ranked

You can read the entire article on Macworld.com

Apple's first event of 2022 has certainly piqued our curiosity. While we usually have a pretty good idea about what's going to be released at this point--the only real surprise at the "Spring Loaded" event was Apple Card Family--Apple has done a good job keeping its "Peek Performance" event under wraps. So if you're playing along, here's what we're most likely to see on Tuesday.

• iPhone SE (A15 chip; 5G connectivity): 100%
• iPad Air (A15 chip; 5G connectivity): 95%
• M1 Pro/M1 Max Mac mini (M1 Pro/M1 Max model to replace current Intel version): 75%
• M2 Processor (the oldest M1 Macs are nearly 16 months old): 50%
• MacBook Air (if M2 processor is announced): 45%
• Standalone Display (27-inch, cheaper than current Pro display): 40%
• 13-inch MacBook Pro (with M2 chip): 30%
• iPad Pro (with M2 chip): 30%
• iMac Pro (27" version): 20%
• Mac Pro: 15%

The 2022 TDS Workshop Season

We have great events lined up for this year, and there are a few more coming. Here's a recap of what we have so far:

• April 2022 - Humboldt Redwoods Workshop (physical)
• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event)
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online)
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical)
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical)

You can learn more about all of these events and register by visiting TheNimblePhotographer.com.

The New OM-1: Impressed by the Specs? Here's my Hands-on Review of the Camera.

You can read the entire article on FStoppers.com

Author Ivor Rackham wrote:

I first trained in an engineering background. Consequently, I have always had a penchant for well-made precision instruments. When I lifted this camera from the box, my very first realization of the OM System OM-1 was how well it fits that bill; it looks and feels like a high-quality device, making it a pleasure to hold and use.

What He Liked

Firstly, I enjoy learning, and there is a lot to learn with the OM-1.

Next, there is a big leap forward in image quality; the increased dynamic range and operating speeds are noticeable in the real world, thanks to that new sensor and powerful processor that enable all the unique features mentioned above.

Third, I am glad that OMDS chose to listen to the Micro Four Thirds users and make improvements where they were needed, and not chase more megapixels, as dictated by the big brand marketing departments. I don't need bigger files.

Then there is the menu improvement. That will make it much more accessible for new users. It's color-coded and the sub-menu names are better. Although a different layout from its predecessors - I liked the previous version - it is still familiar enough to not seem completely alien. Furthermore, the four custom modes, and the customizable "My Menu" means that delving into the depths of the menu system is usually unnecessary. What is more, if something is grayed out, on the press of the Ok button, a dialog box can tell you why.

Fifth, I find the camera comfortable to use, and the buttons easy to reach, and its name is much less of a mouthful than its predecessors. It also feels really well made too. Plus that new EVF is crystal clear.

Sixth, the computational photography features are useful in the real world, and not gimmicks like fake bokeh. This is a serious photographer's camera.

What Could Be Improved

There is only one area of improvement that struck me: I wish the removable-battery charger had been included in the box. The USB-C charger and in-body charging is great, but I prefer to have my camera safely stored while I charge batteries. I also try to avoid long-term use of sockets and body covers to prevent wear. Plus, in some circumstances, I want to charge one battery while I am using the other. Consequently, the additional battery charger is on my shopping list. But that's a tiny gripe; I know photographers who are happy with in-body charging.

Virtual Camera Club News

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts!

My Writing on Medium.com: I now have 51 published articles on Medium.com. And if you haven't visited the site, and enjoy good writing on a variety of topics, I suggest that you may want to take a look. You can just go to the home page and enter "Derrick Story" in the search field. And if you like what you read, then follow me!

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.

Yes, it's true: I have more than one camera. And I'm guessing that you do as well.

As fun as it is having multiple bodies, I've also learned a few tricks along the way to ensure that I enjoy a seamless workflow regardless of which capture device I'm using. None of these tips are rocket science, but it's amazing how often we overlook simple things in our hectic daily lives. So in that spirit, I offer these reminders for multiple-camera photographers (which I suspect is everyone).

Pro photographer Brooke Bartleson with the new OM System OM-1, her latest Micro Four Thirds body that she is integrating into her workflow. Photo complements of OM System.

All in the Family

It's so tempting to add a new brand to your kit. I go through this all of the time, with my latest temptation being the new Nikons. But the reality is that if I stick with Micro Four Thirds for my interchangeable lens bodies, I have great economy regarding my lenses. That's why I waited for the new OM-1 instead of jumping to a different brand.

Being able to tap any optic in my existing library with a new camera body gets me up and running quickly and saves me from making redundant lens purchases (which really add up).

An exception to this approach was the the Fujifilm X100V. But it wasn't really since it's not an interchangeable lens camera, so it was a one-off purchase. And it helped my remain patient while the OM-1 was being developed.

Keep in mind that compatibility isn't limited to lenses. Batteries and accessories that work in multiple bodies are a dream!

Get Those Bodies In-Sync

When my pictures move from camera to computer, I want them to display in chronological order in my library. On any given shoot, I might have an OM-1 with a long lens and the E-M10 or PEN-F capturing the wider stuff.

By taking a few minutes to check each camera's internal clock before heading out the door, I can ensure that the timestamps match, and that the files land correctly in my photo management app.

One last thought on this: If a smartphone is part of your camera arsenal, then use it as your timestamp starting point.

Latest Firmware Please

Firmware updates handle a variety of tasks ranging from bug fixes to lens compatibility to adding new features. Keeping your camera and lens firmware current ensures that everything will work with everything, and that you'll have consistent features from each camera body within a brand.

Default Camera Settings

I recommend configuring a set of default settings for your camera, and having them as a starting point for each body.

In my case, it's Program Mode, Auto ISO, Auto White Balance, RAW+Jpeg, Standard Color Profile, and Single Shot drive. I chose these settings because if something happens quickly that I want to capture, I can grab the camera and fire knowing that I will get a shot. Having to fool around with adjustments often leads to missed opportunities. And if I have to switch cameras quickly, I want those same default settings for that body as well.

Once you get the first capture, then you can then adjust settings to fine tune the image. Just remember, once you're done with the shoot, return the camera to your default settings. Make that a habit.

Final Thoughts

I find it amazing how a little pre-planning leads to a wonderfully smooth workflow, even when multiple cameras are involved. I hope you found these reminders helpful.

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