Alex Cooke's picture
Average rating:
3.2 out of 5 3.2
Alex Cooke
Cleveland, OH
Menu

Articles written by Alex Cooke

Sensor Size Showdown: How It Impacts Your Images
4
by

Depth of field, the range of distance within a photograph that appears acceptably sharp, is a fundamental aspect of photography. It influences the way viewers perceive images, directing their attention and creating a sense of depth and dimension. Understanding how sensor size impacts depth of field is crucial for photographers, allowing them to make informed decisions about the equipment they use and achieve their desired creative vision.

You Wish You Could Own This Lens
0
by

Capturing the perfect shot often requires a delicate balance between focal length, image quality, and portability. Finding a lens that excels in all three areas can feel like searching for a mythical creature. That's why lenses like these make us drool.

The Fujifilm X100VI: A Photographer's Perspective
0
by

The allure of a new camera often lies in its technical specifications and the promise of enhanced capabilities. However, the true measure of a camera's value rests in its ability to seamlessly integrate into a photographer's individual approach and empower their creative vision. This exploration of the Fujifilm X100VI offers valuable insights into this nuanced relationship between photographer and tool.

The Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM: A Budget Zoom Lens for FullFrame Cameras
2
by

Full frame cameras offer exceptional image quality and versatility, but their lenses can often be bulky and expensive. For photographers seeking a compact and affordable zoom lens option, the Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM provides a compelling solution. This lens is particularly well-suited for travel, street photography, and everyday shooting scenarios.

Transforming Bland Photos With Two Simple Steps
1
by

Capturing a stunning photograph often requires more than just pointing and shooting. Post-processing plays a crucial role in enhancing your images and bringing your creative vision to life.

How to Transform Your Landscape Images in Lightroom
0
by

Capturing the perfect landscape shot often requires a lot of careful and intentional work. A truly impactful image involves understanding how to manipulate perspective and draw the viewer's eye to the most compelling elements of the scene. This is where post-processing tools can help.

The Balancing Act: In-Camera Perfection vs. Post-Production Magic
0
by

Achieving the perfect shot is a constant pursuit for photographers, but the path to perfection isn't always clear-cut. The age-old debate of "get it right in camera" versus "fix it in post" is an important consideration, especially in the world of commercial photography, where time is money and budgets are tight.

Canon's Smart Move With Sigma and Tamron Shakes Up the APS-C Lens Market
11
by

The recent introduction of new lenses for Canon's RF-S mount by third-party manufacturers Sigma and Tamron is a significant development for the industry. These lenses, all designed for APS-C format cameras, are a significant development that reveals Canon's strategic approach to its mirrorless camera lineup.

Dispelling Common Misconceptions for New Photographers
2
by

Transitioning from a novice to a seasoned photographer involves more than just mastering technical skills. It also requires shedding misconceptions that can hinder your growth and creativity. These misconceptions often stem from outdated advice, gear obsession, and a misunderstanding of what truly makes a great photograph.

Can the Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Do It All?
1
by

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR offers just about all the focal lengths a person could want in one package, making it an intriguing option for a wide range of users, particularly landscape and travel photographers. Can it deliver good results, though? This excellent video review takes a look at the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Natural Portrait Retouching in Photoshop
0
by

Achieving a polished yet natural look in portrait photography is a crucial skill for any photographer. Balancing skin tones, removing blemishes, and enhancing features without creating an artificial appearance requires a keen eye and the right techniques.

Essential Tips for Lightroom Classic
1
by

Lightroom is an indispensable tool for photographers of all skill levels, offering a comprehensive suite of features to enhance and manage your images. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, optimizing your workflow and understanding the nuances of the software can significantly elevate your editing process.

Developing Your Artistic Vision as a Photographer
2
by

As photographers, we all strive to capture images that resonate with viewers and effectively convey our unique artistic vision. However, translating our creative ideas into compelling photographs can often feel like a daunting challenge.

How Good Is This Ultra-Affordable Portrait Lens?
2
by

Portrait lenses are often quite expensive, with some easily running north of $2,000. That's why, at $168, the TTArtisan AF 56mm f/1.8 is an intriguing option for Nikon Z, Sony E, and Fujifilm X APS-C users. This excellent video review takes a look at the lens and the sort of performance and image quality you can expect from it in usage.

Canon's Most Important Cameras Inch Closer to Release
1
by

The excitement surrounding the imminent release of the Canon EOS R1 and R5 Mark II is palpable, with retailers gearing up and training sessions underway, meaning we're getting even closer to seeing the next generation of Canon powerhouses.

Advanced Contrast Techniques for Stunning Photos
0
by

Understanding and effectively utilizing contrast is crucial for creating compelling and dynamic photographs. It's not just about making your images pop; it's about adding depth, guiding the viewer's eye, and setting the mood of your scene.

A Comprehensive Guide for Starting to Print Your Photos
3
by

Printing your photographs is a magical experience that elevates your work from digital files to tangible pieces of art. It allows you to experience your images in their full glory, appreciating details and colors as intended, much like viewing a painting in a gallery or listening to music at a concert.

Macro Photography Adventures: Discovering Hidden Beauty in Nature 
1
by

Macro photography presents a unique challenge: finding compelling subjects in a world often overlooked. While dedicated macro photographers might cultivate specific environments for tiny creatures or invest in specialized equipment, the reality is that macro opportunities exist everywhere, from your backyard to local parks. The key lies in training your eye to see the miniature landscapes and intricate details that most people miss.

Adding Depth and Dimension: Mastering Tonal Contrast in Editing
0
by

The ability to create a sense of depth and realism in your photographs is important for conveying the true essence of a scene. While modern cameras are capable of capturing incredible detail, raw image files often lack the dynamic range and tonal contrast necessary to bring your images to life. This is where understanding and utilizing tonal contrast becomes essential for transforming flat, lifeless images into captivating visual stories.

Demystifying Three-Point Lighting: A Practical Guide for Photographers
0
by

Understanding and effectively utilizing light is fundamental to creating compelling and impactful portraits. This is where the concept of three-point lighting comes into play, offering a versatile and powerful technique for achieving professional-looking results.