This is The Digital Story Podcast #845, May 31, 2022. Today's theme is "Capturing the Joy of Celebration with Photography" I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

We certainly have had our share of images filled with heartbreak and anguish lately. Mass shootings, war, and disease fill our newsfeeds. But the month of June can help balance those emotions. The sense of accomplishment captured in graduation ceremonies, Father's Day and the debut of summer activities can brighten our spirits. And if we get out our cameras and capture those moments, we can help spread the joy. More about that on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

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Capturing the Joy of Celebration with Photography

For the first time in months, I welled up during a photo shoot. I was standing in the middle of a post-graduation ceremony at Santa Rosa Junior College watching a family converge on a young woman in a cap and gown holding her certificate.

Mom was crying, dad was beaming, and the siblings were looking up in admiration at the accomplishment of their oldest sister. Against the odds of the pandemic, assured financial challenges, and demanding course work, she was graduating and ready for the next chapter of her life. The top of her cap was decorated in sequins that spelled UCLA. She was on her way.

I was there with my camera drinking in every life-affirming drop of joy. Finally, something beautiful.

June is here and it's time to add some balance to my life. I have gatherings planned with friends and family, photo assignments on the books, workshops on the calendar, and as much nature as I can squeeze in between.

I'm tired of reading the newsfeed on my phone that emphasizes the darkness in our world. I know it's here. I know it's real. But I also know there is light. And I'm ready for the brightness of summer.

When I capture one of those moments that warms my heart or makes me smile, not only do I get to experience it live, but get to relive the joy countless times afterward via a well-crafted photograph. This is the magic of photography.

I bring this up because these moments are available to any of us. A playful pet, wondrous child, a little league homerun celebration, a quiet sunrise - these moments are everywhere, especially this time of year.

And when we get tired of celebrating those quiet moments on the bright side of life, our social media feeds will still be there - just in case you get tired of the light.

The 2022 TDS Workshops Update

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:

• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event) - Sold Out
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online) - Sold Out
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical) - 2 Seats Available
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical) - 3 Seats Available

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

Photographer Teaches Posing to Prove Anyone Can Be Photogenic

You can read the entire article at PetaPixel.

A posing coach and portrait photographer has a mission to help people who believe they aren't photogenic. David Suh, from Sacramento, California, runs a course entitled "How to be Photogenic in 30 Days," as well as sharing quick and easy tutorials from his TikTok page.

The 26-year-old has posted dozens of clips where he explains how to pose properly for different kinds of photos. He offers tips on how to "level up" Instagram selfies, how to pose for graduation photos, and explains the best outfits for photo shoots.

Suh's overarching philosophy is based confidence and authenticity, but he has specific poses that he likes to teach such as leaning against a wall.

"Kick the hip out a little bit away from the wall, then lean into the wall. Then use natural hand placements from grabbing the jacket button to grabbing the fingers," he says in a YouTube video.

While this is a standard pose, Suh then likes to direct the subject to a more "fashion" pose by doing something more unusual against the wall.

"I love putting an editorial and magazine twist to my portraits. I don't want it to look too traditional of a LinkedIn headshot kind of vibe," he explains.

"Something you can do is stand further away from the wall and lean with your shoulder. What makes this have that fashion look is the fact that we don't do this every day. A lot of fashion poses are meant to be striking so it captures the viewer's attention so doing an exaggerated move is what gives that fashion look."

Another pose Suh likes is using a flight of stairs, a common feature in cities.

"One of my favorite things to do is give a strong masculine look by sitting wide-legged. You can go for various leans forward while keeping your chest forward. Opening up your energy towards the camera is what gives off a commanding badass energy."

"You can also very easily turn this around and make it a softer look by turning to the side slightly and doing a leg crossover instead. As we turn our energy away from the camera we have a softer look. Turning to the side can also have a slimming effect."

Master Your Craft: Why you should re-edit older photos using new skills

You can read the entire article on Imaging-Resource.com.

Much like your photography skills improve with time and practice, so do your editing skills. Over time, you acquire new editing skills, software improves, and you develop new and different styles. What happens when a professional photographer like Pye Jirsa of SLR Lounge re-edits a photo he captured more than a decade ago?

When Jirsa started doing wedding photography in 2009, his editing style was very different. The image in question is HDR-esque with a lot of contrast and high saturation. I'm sure we all have images like this, especially from when we started photography or learned specific new techniques. The video shows why keeping your original raw files is so important. You never know how your style and taste will change over time. It's always good to have an original file that you can edit again rather than be stuck with a processed file that you no longer like.

Virtual Camera Club News

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.

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 #844, May 24, 2022. Today's theme is "How Much Fill Flash Do You Really Need?" I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

Fill flash is a fundamentally sound practice that improves portraits in many situations. But some photographers shy away from it because they don't want to carry a cumbersome hotshoe flash. But is there a nimble option that provides the desire results without adding bulk to your kit? There is, and that's the first story on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

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How Much Fill Flash Do You Really Need?

Fill flash used for this outdoor portrait. Photo by Derrick Story.

Believe me, no one dislikes excessive bulk more than me. And I got rid of my clumsy hotshoe flashes years ago. But I do carry a shirt pocket Metz 26 AF-2 that has saved my bacon time and time again.

How? By providing just enough fill light for backlit people when working outside. That's the beauty of fill light. You can hold on to some background tonality while still rendering a pleasant exposure on the main subject.

The thing that I've learned over time is that I only need a little fill light for this magic to work. And that has allowed me to rely on pop-up flashes and shirt-pocket sized accessories.

The magic begins by shooting everything in RAW. In contrasty situations, the fill does help balance the lighting, but it can still be a bit overpowered by the background. Shooting in RAW gives me the extra latitude I need to get all the tones balanced.

Next, raise the ISO. There's a world of difference in flash output at ISO 1600 compared to 200. If I'm not getting the results that I want at the lower ISOs, I have no problem increase the sensor's sensitivity. Today's cameras shoot beautifully at ISO 1600.

And finally, work with a short zoom lens to ensure you stay close enough to your subject. Most of my fill flash shots are between 28mm and 50mm. Not only do you get a more personal vibe at these focal lengths, you're close enough for your pocket-sized flash to reach.

The Metz 26 AF-2 is a good example of a nimble fill flash.

The Metz 26 AF-2 has been discontinued. What a shame. But the MEIKE MK-320P Mini Flash is available for $69, and it too is super nimble.

• Fit panasonic and Olympus or other M43 mount camera
• Supports manual, ttl, optical slave(s1,s2),stroboscopic mode ,front/rear curtain-sync,overheating protection,automatic sleep mode
• Built-in LED auxiliary lighting ,external USB interface
• Weighs only 150g , small and easy to carry
• Metal hot shoe , support ON-Camera and OFF-Camera Flash Triggering

You can also use the pop-up flash on your camera. And Olympus users receive a nifty, super-portable hotshoe flash in the box with their camera.

If you haven't been using fill light outdoors because you didn't want to carry a bunch of extra gear, give one of these options a try. I think you will be very please with the results.

The 2022 TDS Workshops Update

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:

• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event) - Sold Out
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online) - Sold Out
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical) - 2 Seats Available
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical) - 3 Seats Available

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

The Nine Volt AirCap Camera Body Cap Hides an Apple AirTag

You can read the entire article at PetaPixel.

Camera and computer accessory brand Nine Volt has created a camera body cap that on the surface looks normal, but secretly hides a slot to hold an Apple AirTag so that photographers can always locate their equipment.

In major cities, cameras are often targeted by thieves because of how quickly and easily they can be flipped for large sums of cash. In San Francisco, the problem is so rampant that some thieves not only target photographers in broad daylight (stealing from PetaPixel contributor Jefferson Graham and even local news crews) but they also have been caught breaking into cars while they're stuck in traffic.

A recent report showed that stolen equipment is often separated from bags and luggage within a few minutes of being stolen, so hiding an AirTag in the lining of a camera bag or Pelican case will only work for a very short amount of time. Nine Volt, a computer and camera accessory brand, recognized this problem and has come up with a solution.

Nine Volt says its AirCap is a carbon fiber composite camera body cap that is made to keep a photographer's camera sensor protected like a standard body cap, but it also includes a hidden rear compartment within the cap that holds an AirTag. The company says that the hidden compartment shows no obvious signs that it is removable and is secured with four strong neodymium magnets. To access the hidden compartment, a photographer needs to twist the inside of the AirCap to release the magnets and then invert the cap.

Nine Volt manufactures the Air Cap for Canon RF, Fujifilm GFX, Sony E, Nikon Z, Phase One XF, and PL mount. Each cap retails for $49 and the AirTag is not included. While similar-looking caps for lenses are visible in Nine Volt's Instagram video, the company doesn't seem to offer lens caps with an AirTag compartment.

The TIPA World Awards 2022

You can read the entire article at the TIPA website.

Founded in 1991, the Technical Image Press Association, TIPA, is composed of many member publications in the photo/imaging field published in print and online. These publications cover the full range of the industry, including consumer, professional, business-to-business, and fine art photography and imaging.

Member magazines and their online presence have wide reach and readership in many languages and cover markets around the world in Europe, Asia, Australia and North and South America.

Editors and their staff make up a global panel of knowledgeable experts who have earned a reputation for honest and trustworthy appraisal of photo and imaging products. Their magazines and websites have built a loyal following among their readers. Each member publication is engaged in the selection and final vote in the TIPA WORLD AWARDS process to name the Best Photo and Imaging products of the year.

• Best MFT Camera: OM System OM-1.
• Best APS-C Camera: Nikon Z fc.
• Best Full Frame Expert Camera: Sony Alpha 7 IV.
• Best Full Frame Professional Camera: Nikon Z9.
• Best Camera Innovation: Canon EOS R3.
• Best Rangefinder Camera: Leica M11.
• Best Professional 4K Hybrid Camera: Panasonic LUMIX DC-GH6.
• Best Medium Format Camera: Fujifilm GFX 50S II.

Virtual Camera Club News

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.

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.

A big photo shoot with hundreds, if not thousands of RAW files can stress your photo management workflow. If it's an event where I need to use burst mode for recording the action, my deliverables are about 200 files for every 1,000 captured. So what to do with the other 800?

Culling Before Importing

These days, most of the rejects don't even make it on to my computer. When Capture One Pro introduced the Import Browser, that allowed me to begin culling at the first step of the workflow. Instead of simply downloading everything from the memory card on to the computer, I make an initial Yay/Nay pass and separate the wheat from the chaff with the Import Browser.

Yes, it takes more time on the front end, but I have fewer large RAW files to manage on my computer, easing the strain on my internal drives and backups. (If you're not familiar with the Import Browser, here's a short piece on how it works.)

Rating the Keepers

Generally speaking, I'm now only importing about half the shots from the memory card thanks to culling out losers during import using the browser. The second step is to add star ratings to the images that do make the cut.

I've found it easier to accurately rate pictures during this step because I've already seen everything once, and I have a feel for the overall shoot. This is the point where I whittle down the deliverables from 500 to about 200. (I keep all 500, but the 200 that go to the client now get their own album in the photo management software.)

Only Adjusting the Remaining Survivers

I go through those survivors one more time for cropping, exposure, and color adjustments. I then export the finals out of Capture One and send them to the client. The entire 500 images are also backed up using my normal archiving process.

What to do with the Rejects?

The only remaining question is: what to do with the files that are on the memory card that never made it to the computer? For me, the answer depends on how I captured them in the first place.

If it was an action shoot where I was using burst mode and have sequences where I've culled out the keepers from any given burst, I'm ok with letting the rejects go. I've already backed up half of the shots, and only a percentage of those were deliverables.

I have a harder time deciding what to do with single frame shoots. In those situations, it's not a burst of a dozen images, but rather a frame by frame capture with each image its own unique picture.

For those shoots, I'm dumping the entire memory card on a large backup hard drive, just in case I ever have to go back through them to look for a particular shot. I may never open those folders again, but there's some peace of mind knowing that I could if needed.

Regardless of how I decide to handle the rejects, I don't format the memory cards until I've secured at least one backup of the images that did make it into my photo management system.

The real point here is this: You may not necessarily need to archive every frame you shoot. That can really add up over time, especially if you shoot RAW with a high resolution camera. And how often are you tapping those archives anyway?

Put some thought into a plan that you can live with, considering the variables that come with different types of shoots. Hopefully you'll find a sweet spot that balances common sense with the price of storage.

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

This is The Digital Story Podcast #843, May 17, 2022. Today's theme is "The Camping Gear Special for Photographers." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

Camping and photography are the peanut butter and chocolate of outdoor actives. It's an understatement to say they go together well. And over the years I've learned that the more comfortable I am in nature, the better my pictures turn out. In that spirit I'm sharing with you some of my favorite camping gadgets and tips to help you maximize your experiences. I hope you enjoy the show.

Tune-In Via Your Favorite Podcast App!

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The Camping Gear Special for Photographers

Before going forward, let's step back for a minute, quite a ways back. I remember the very moment that I decided that I needed to buy a camping vehicle. It happened during a frosty October morning in the Eastern Sierra when the ground was as hard as concrete.

I struggled a bit to get my jeans on in the two-man tent, crawled out the front opening on my hands and knees, and staggered toward the camp stove to begin a cup of coffee. As I stretched the kinks out of my back, I thought to myself, there has got to be a more comfortable way to do this.

One month later I bought the VW Vanagon with fold out double bed. And my outdoor life has never been the same.

The Vanagon has moved on to a new owner, but my camping life continues to improve. These days, I'm sleeping soundly, eating well, and brimming with creativity as I work outdoors.

A few carefully selected items have mad all the difference. And the totality of them fit easily in the electric SUV. I thought you might enjoy learning about the gear that has transcended my wilderness mornings from creaky to comfortable. Here are my recommendations.

Clean, Convenient Fire

Fire is at the heart of any camping experience. It cooks your food, adds glowing ambience to the evening, and helps warm the bones. Let's start with the most essential item: the camp stove.

Coleman 2 Burner Grill/Stove $89 - If you don't like washing dishes and pots while camping, and you want to keep packaging waste to a minimum, then a grill is definitely the way to go.

This Coleman combo works great, is easy to clean, and includes a regular burner as well for that pot of breakfast coffee. Even though the stove is affordable, it has held up well over time for me.

Tip: an 11" x 11" griddle fits perfectly over the grill making it easy to cook pancakes and eggs for breakfast.

Ignik Refillable Gas Growler Deluxe 5-Pound Propane Tank $149 This refillable propane tank is quite compact, yet it replaces 5 Coleman bottles that end up in the landfill.

The kit comes with a 5-Pound tank, adapter hose for your propane stove, and a carry case. It all zips up nicely and fits in the back of your vehicle without taking up much room. So much better than disposable 1-lb bottles, and far more compact that a full size tank. And enough fuel for days of camping.

Portable Propane Gas Fire Pit Outdoor Firebowl $135 - Sitting around a fire ring is fun, but the smoke and mess isn't. You can still tell scary stories around a fire with a propane-powered fire pit.

This is a perfect match for the propane growler tank I mentioned earlier. It's compact, easy to set up, smoke free, and you don't have to worry about hazardous embers. And yes, you can make s'mores over its flames.

Turning Your Car into a Home

SlimShady Awning OG $249 This lightweight room-mounted awning transforms your car campsite into a homy patio. You'll get the best price directly from Yakama, but you will need crossbars for your roof rack if you don't have them already.

You can set it up solo in about 15 minutes, but it's much easier with 2 people. I like the 6.5' awning that's comfortable for a couple chairs and a table. Be prepared to answer a few questions from others in the campground, because people seem to really like this rig.

Breathable Mesh Car Window Shades - I sleep much better in the back of my VW ID.4 now that I have mesh screens for the rear windows. This allows me to have cross ventilation at night which is both refreshing and eliminates condensation inside the car.

The most important thing is that they fit your window snugly so you don't have to worry about pests entering the cabin at night. They also help keep your car cool during the day because you can leave the screens in place and roll down the rear windows all the way.

Camco Aluminum Side Table $17 - These portable side tables fold flat taking up very little storage space, but provide great utility in camp.

I recommend getting a couple of them. One to serve as a side table for snacks and drinks while lounging in your camp chair, and a second as an ottoman to raise your feet. I clip a braided placemat to the top to make it even more comfortable for my legs.

Bessport Camping Blanket $32 - Lightweight camping blankets come in so handy around the site. Great for draping over legs as the sun goes down, using as a morning cape while brewing coffee, or adding an extra layer of warmth to your bed. I keep one in the VW at all times, but use it most in the campsite.

RoverTac Camping Accessories Gear Tools Multitool Hatchet Survival Gear Axe $21 - Great for pounding in tent stakes, chopping up tinder, and dozens of other uses.

Bonus Item

Bisquick Shake 'n Pour Pancake Mix - Remember my quest for no messy dishes or bowls? Just add 1 1/2 cups of water to the Shake n Pour container, shake for 30 seconds, and pour the batter on to a hot griddle. In just a few minutes you will have delicious, fluffy pancakes.

Makes enough for four with egg and fruit side dishes, or plenty for two with just the cakes. Once the batter is gone, recycle the container, wipe off the griddle, and you're done.

Bonus Tip: I use paper plates for my camping. All I have to wash are my utensils.

Final Thoughts

These little comforts make a big difference during the outing. Not only will you be more comfortable, but I'm betting more creative as well.

The 2022 TDS Workshops Update

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:

• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event) - Sold Out
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online) - Sold Out
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical) - 2 Seats Available
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical) - 3 Seats Available

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

OM System OM-1 review

You can read the entire review at Preview.com.

The OM-1 excels in situations such as wildlife shooting, where its power and compact telephoto lenses mean it's able to offer an unmatched combination, but it can also be a pretty capable sports camera or a general, everyday photographers' camera expected to shoot a bit of everything. So, while it can't generally match a comparably priced full-frame camera for image quality, but there's nothing else that offers this level of all-round capability (shooting speed, AF performance, IS performance, weather sealing) in such a small package.

The OM-1 brings speed, improved AF and more detailed video to a system that already offered great image stabilization and small and light camera/lens combinations. This makes it a powerful all-rounder with particular strengths for wildlife. That compactness comes as a trade-off for absolute image quality but a series of computational multi-shot modes can help close the gap in certain circumstances. It's a lot of capability for the money.

Overall Score: 87 percent with a Silver Award. More than 1,600 comments.

Virtual Camera Club News

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.

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 #842, May 10, 2022. Today's theme is "The Bias Against Teleconverters and Conversion Lenses." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

Photographers tend to like their cameras clean and their lenses lean. Anything that might compromise image quality such as teleconverters, conversion lenses, and sometimes even filters is frowned upon. But how legitimate are our concerns? I re-examine my biases in 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

The Bias Against Teleconverters and Conversion Lenses

My concerns about teleconverters and conversion lenses stretches all the way back to the film days. I can still remember the disappointment I felt when I got my prints back from the lab after using a $20 2X tele converter on my 70mm-210mm zoom lens. The pictures were so soft they were almost fuzzy.

And that letdown happened after suffering through the picture taking process where I could barely focus my camera because the viewfinder was so dark from the 2 stops loss of light.

I also experimented with low-cost conversion lenses that extended the range or allowed me to get closer with my standard optic. Again, the results were far from satisfying.

And so I swore off optical enhancers all together. If my lens could get the job done natively, then I would either have to go without or buy another lens that met my needs. And like so many other scenarios in photography, the opinion I formed years ago remains with me today. Or at least it did.

My first modern breakthrough was the Olympus MC-14 M.Zuiko Digital 1.4x Teleconverter that I use with my 40-150mm PRO zoom. Now granted, the Olympus teleconverter is matched to their own optics, and it costs $349, not $29. And the performance is every bit as good as with a native zoom.

My latest breakthrough is the FUJIFILM WCL-X100 II Wide Conversion Lens for my X100V. I had been using a DIY rig that I cobbled together, but I finally saved up and got the matched optic from Fujifilm. And what a joy it is.

It is handsome, compact, smart, and provides excellent image quality. And it costs $349.

I've started to change my opinion about these accessory optics, and a few of the reasons are:

• Mirrorless Cameras and AF End the Focusing Problem - Thanks to great AF systems and electronic viewfinders, we no longer pay an "ease of focusing price" with teleconverters.
• Matched Optics Are Better than Generics - When I buy Olympus for Olympus or Fujifilm for Fujifilm, those optics are designed for specific lenses and not just generic magnifiers.
• More Expensive Does Mean Better - The coatings and construction for my FUJIFILM WCL-X100 II are on par with the lens it fits over. These are real optics, not toys.
• Match Features Enhance User Experience - Niceties such as automatic viewing frame adjustment and correct EXIF data readout feel very much like an interchangeable lens camera.
• More Compact than a Full Size Lens - This is especially true with the teleconverters, but even with the wide angle conversion lens.

So then it comes down to image quality. And as I look at my shots at 100 percent magnification in Capture One Pro, I see sharpness, detail, and good color. There certainly may be a tradeoff compared to an expensive prime lens, but considering the other benefits combined with very good image quality, it's hard to argue against these optical accessories for light-packing nimble photographers.

The 2022 TDS Workshops Update

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:

• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event) - Sold Out
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online) - Sold Out
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical) - 2 Seats Available
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical) - 3 Seats Available

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

My Favorite Adventure Series - Helicopter Flight Over Hoover Dam

This idea came out of a group conversation that we had in the Humboldt Redwoods where the guys were interested in some of my big assignments from the past. We kiddingly nicknames these stories, "Back in the Day."

I decided to take them up on their suggestion and run semi-regular spots highlighting really cool photography adventures that I've been lucky enough to experience. Here's another one.

I had a chance to shoot with a preproduction model of the Panasonic DMC-TZ5 at PMA in January 2008. The "TZ" stands for travel zoom, and this is a terrific "on the go" camera.

Starting with the 10X Leica DC Vario-Elmarit optical zoom (28-280mm equivalent), the little compact can handle a variety of shooting situations. The image stabilization works wonderfully, and having the option of choosing among aspect ratios (4:3, 3:2, or 16:9) is a creative plus. This latest version provides HD movie capture at 1280 x 720 @ 30 fps. The accompanying audio is recorded with an onboard mic, so it isn't as good as the visuals, but still a great option to have while traveling.

The picture of Hoover Dam that I shot with the TZ5 is featured on the fourth page of The Digital Photography Companion across from the credits. I was able to add the image just as we were going to production.

Shooting from a helicopter is tricky business. You have to photograph through glass that is often curved and full of reflections. Unlike with other through-glass shooting, you can't put your camera lens up against the surface because of the rotor vibration while flying. I was dealing with all of these factors while capturing this image of Hoover Dam with Lake Mead in the background at the Arizona/Nevada border in Southwestern USA.

So here's how I did it. I used a Panasonic LUMIX TZ5 (just announced at PMA) in aerial scene mode. What that does (and what you can do on your own) is activate image stabilization and "warm up" the white balance to offset the coolness of shooting from above. I then looked for a patch of clean glass and held the camera as close to it as possible without touching it. I watched the reflections as the pilot maneuvered, and shot when the reflections weren't apparent.

You can increase your odds of success by wearing dark clothing (that doesn't reflect in the glass as much) and bringing a polarizer filter. Both help minimize reflections in the glass. If you're using a compact, bring one that has as wide a focal length as possible. The TZ5 goes to 28 mm, which helped considerably for capturing big scenes.

ProGrade Digital announces $460 512GB V90 UHS-II SDXC Cobalt series memory card

You can read the entire story> on DPreview.com.

ProGrade Digital has announced a 512GB version of its Cobalt UHS-II SDXC memory card, which offers maximum read and write speeds up to 300MB/s and 250MB/s, respectively.

This new 512GB Cobalt SD card offers V90 performance, guaranteeing the minimum write speeds never drop below 90MB/s, an important specification for times when you're recording high bit-rate video directly onto the card. ProGrade Digital, which was founded by industry veterans from Lexar and SanDisk, says each component of the card is tested 'down to individual memory chips' to ensure the best performance and reliability possible.

The 512GB Cobalt SD card is both X-ray and shockproof, and capable of operating between -25ºC (-14ºF) and 85ºC (185ºF). It also features built-in error correction that detects and corrects data write and data transfer errors.

The ProGrade Digital 512GB UHS-II SDXC memory card is available to pre-order for $460, which amounts to roughly $.90/GB. There are also 256GB, 128GB and 64GB models available, but those have been available for well over a year 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.

For most of my travel photography I very much like the 35mm angle of view provided by the Fujifilm X100V. But there are those situations when I need just a little wider frame. Wandering through the redwoods is a perfect example.

Armstrong Redwoods with the Fujifilm X100V and wide conversion lens. This was the breadth that I wanted to capture.

At first, I had very good luck using a DIY adaptation of an old Canon wide angle lens I had. Over time, however, the rig proved a bit bulky for travel, and I had to set the EXIF data manually. Ultimately, I wanted something more compact and convenient.

So I turned my attention to the FUJIFILM WCL-X100 II Wide Conversion Lens because it was much smaller and definitely more convenient. With it on the X100V, I now have a quality 28mm equivalent optic that is wider than the 35mm standard lens.

Fujifilm updated the WCL-X100 II a few years ago to make it smarter on the X100S and X100V. The optics are basically the same as the original wide angle lens, but they included a clever magnet system that tells the camera when the wide angle is mounted, and the camera makes all of the framing adjustments, plus alters the EXIF data accordingly. This is wildly convenient. It feels very much like an interchangeable lens camera with the new system.

Another nice feature is that the wide conversion lens has the same 49mm filter size as the standard adapter that you probably already have on the camera. So you can use the existing protection filter (or any other type) that you're already carrying with you.

Fujifilm X100V with WCL-X100 II Wide Conversion Lens.

The wide angle lens looks very natural on the camera, even handsome. The lens quickly screws into the threads on the camera body that are revealed when you remove the filter ring adapter. The X100V isn't as pocketable when the wide angle mounted, but it's still not bad either. And it's certainly easy enough to remove the lens and stash it in the other pocket. Image quality is excellent, as you would imagine.

The wide angle lens kit comes with front and back caps plus a nice lens pouch.

The Bottom Line

My DIY solution worked well when I wasn't on the road, which was fine during the pandemic, but now that I'm out and about more, I prefer the WCL-X100 II Wide Conversion Lens because of its compact size and convenience. And the fact that I can use my existing 49mm filter is a nice bonus.

Highly recommended.

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 #841, May 3, 2022. Today's theme is "Mother's Day and Other Great Family Photos" I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

Some folks will be spending time with their family this weekend thanks to Mother's Day on Sunday. Generally speaking, Moms don't like having their picture taken. But I have a few tips for you in today's show that will not only help you get her in front of the camera, but will also ensure she looks great in the picture. I hope you enjoy the show.

Tune-In Via Your Favorite Podcast App!

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Mother's Day and Other Great Family Photos

Here are my 5 tips for great Mother's Day photos.

• No Solo Portraits - Very few moms will stand for a solo portrait. But if you get the kids involved, she will gladly pose with them. And that's the secret: small group photos with those she loves.
• Work Fast - Whatever trust you gained with the group photo approach, you can just as quickly lose if you take too long to complete the picture. Before the gathering begins, set up your camera so it is ready to go and all you have to do is compose, focus, and shoot.
• Use Fill Flash Outdoors - There's a reason why so many wedding photographers use fill flash outdoors: it is flattering for the subject. Bringing light from the front softens textures and adds a twinkle to the eye.
• Bring an Instant Printer - Making prints on the spot is a hit. And you can let people take their favorites with them when they return home. I use a FUJIFILM INSTAX MINI EVO Hybrid Instant Camera ($199) for this purpose. I send the pictures from my camera to the iPhone, crop and edit as needed, then send the image to the Fujifilm camera/printer.
• Email Photos to Everyone - If you establish a track record of following through and sending everyone shots of the day as promised, you'll find that they will more eagerly pose for you during family events.

And finally, those of you lucky enough to spend time with your Mom and other family members this weekend, take a moment to appreciate the gift you are receiving. And to all the moms listening, Happy Mother's Day, and thank you for everything you do.

The 2022 TDS Workshops Update

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:

• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event) - Sold Out
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online) - Sold Out
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical) - 2 Seats Available
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical) - 3 Seats Available

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

OM SYSTEM M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40-150MM F4.0 PRO REVIEW

You can read on amateurphotographer.com.

OMDS says the lens is, in effect, a scaled-down version of the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F2.8 PRO, with an optical formula derived from its larger-aperture sibling. This is likely to be a good thing, given that the 40-150mm f/2.8 gives excellent image quality. However, like the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO and the aforementioned 20mm f/1.4, the new lens also employs a simplified physical design, with neither a programmable L-Fn button on the barrel, nor a focus ring that can be snapped back towards the camera to engage manual focus.

At £799, the 40-150mm f/4 neatly occupies the middle ground between its £1099 f/2.8 sibling and the entry-level M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F4-5.6 R, which costs around £210. It's clear that OMDS views it mainly as a travel-friendly option that should nicely complement small cameras like the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III, rather than an action-friendly option for E-M1 or OM-1 users. But how does it stack up in practice?

In many respects, the OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F4 PRO delivers nicely on its promise. Like the 12-45mm f/4, it adapts the optical design of its larger, more expensive f/2.8 sibling to deliver lovely crisp images from a small, lightweight package. Indeed, it's remarkably small for a 300mm equivalent lens with premium optics. You don't even have to go searching for a sweet spot in terms of focal length and aperture, as it delivers plenty of detail at f/4. The real trick is not to stop down too far.

There are, however, some compromises to accept in return for the compact size. Naturally the f/4 maximum aperture isn't great for blurring backgrounds, while autofocus isn't quite as good at keeping up with fast-moving subjects compared to more expensive optics, either. But I suspect many users will happily accept these drawbacks in return for the lens's sheer portability.

Overall, then, the 40-150mm f/4 is a fine little lens that neatly fills a gap in the M.Zuiko line-up between the entry-level and f/2.8 Pro zooms that cover the same range. It's a particularly good match for compact Micro Four Thirds bodies such as the E-M5 Mark III, but is just as good a choice for E-M1/OM-1 users looking to travel light. It would make an excellent companion for either the 12-40mm f/2.8 or 12-45mm f/4.5 standard zooms.

Recommended - 4.5 Stars

Dorothea Lange Words and Pictures

You can read on LensCulture.com.

"All photographs can be fortified by words," Lange wrote. For her, words could extend the power of an image, not just causing an emotional response but also urging the viewer to not only see but to read, to listen carefully. She wrote that her image captions should carry "not only factual information, but also added clues to attitudes, relationships and meanings," calling these captions "connective tissue." Some of her image titles exhibit a matter of factness, a dry wit, On the Road to Los Angeles, California (1937) features two men walking down a dirt road towards a billboard advising to take the train next time. An image of men in front of a building is titled Six Tenant Farmers Without Farms, Hardeman County, Texas (1937).

The power of words also extended beyond image titles, to encompass the voice of her subjects. Whilst photographing, Lange took copious field notes on her assignments recording where, when, and who she was depicting and what they had to say. The exhibition shines a light on these collections and how in pairing the photographs with the subjects' own words, Lange empowered their voices. The endpapers of her book An American Exodus, which she worked on with her husband, the agricultural economist Paul Taylor, hold the words of her subjects. Upon entering the gallery, these words feature prominently, as an introduction to the images on view, giving voice to the protagonists of her work.

Throughout the show, wall text enriches the images with fragments of Lange's own notes and extended quotes from those she photographed. This combination of words and pictures hits both head and heart; the photographs touch the viewer but the words allow them to do more than that, they shine a light on the injustices of the wider world through experience and fact. They also illuminate the inner thoughts and methods of a photographer committed to bringing change to the world with the tools at hand.

Even through the show has come and gone, the book from it is available on Amazon.com.

Virtual Camera Club News

Will return with another installment from My Favorite Adventure Series.

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 OM System OM-1 Micro Four Thirds camera is making a big splash, even to the point of luring some photographers away from their existing systems. So then the conversation quickly moves to which lenses should be paired with the new body.

Unless you're going with a strictly nimble setup, I would start with the OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II ($999). Even though it's not the most compact zoom in the MFT lineup, this optic is a must-have for serious photography and professional work. With a constant aperture of f/2.8, you can tackle low light environments while leveraging a very useful 24-80mm equivalent zoom range. (To get full frame equivalent with MFT optics, multiple by 2X.)

With a weather resistance rating of IP53, you can work in virtually any environment. Another feature that I like is the manual focus clutch that allows you to operate it just like a quality manual focus lens, complete with distance markings.

Image quality is outstanding. And this updated model includes an extra-low reflection optical coating that minimizes lens flare and ghosting for improved contrast and color fidelity when working in strong lighting conditions.

This is a great optic to build your system around. And if you buy the OM-1 bundled with this lens, you save hundreds of dollars.

A comparison of the f/4 (left) and f/2.8 versions of the 40mm-150mm zoom.

The other pro optic that I recommend is the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO ($1,349). You may be aware that OM System just released a very tempting f/4 version of this zoom that's more compact, but I think the f/2.8 version is the better choice for professional photography.

With an equivalent focal range of 80-300mm with a constant aperture of f/2.8, you have ample reach for nature and sports photography, even in less than ideal lighting conditions. Plus, having the faster f/2.8 model allows you to add the Olympus MC-14 M.Zuiko Digital 1.4x Teleconverter to extend the equivalent range to 420mm with a maximum aperture of only f/4.

This is the one lens that I could not live without for event photography, especially in situations where flash is not allowed. Thanks to the outstanding built-in image stabilization in MFT cameras, I've handheld this lens with shutter speeds as low as 1/15th of a second in dim lighting and come away with publishable images. It's just incredible.

If the previous two optics are just too big for you, then I think you'll like the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 lens ($499). One of the big advantages of Micro Four Thirds photography is the wide selection of fast, compact optics that allow you to travel light but still work in challenging conditions. The 17mm f/1.8 is one of the best examples of this benefit.

Many MFT photographers consider this their "go to" everyday lens because it combines a fast f/1.8 maximum aperture with a versatile 34mm equivalent focal length in a very svelte design. So compact, in fact, that your camera will fit in a jacket pocket or purse.

Other desirable features include the manual focus clutch that we typically see on PRO optics costing much more, movie & still compatible AF system, and rounded 7-blade aperture design. For a truly deluxe experience, add the $49 LH-48B metal lens hood that looks great and protects the front of the lens.

Panasonic photographers may be wondering why none of their optics have not been included on this list. It certainly isn't because of their quality. Panasonic glass is outstanding.

And even though both Panasonic and OM System are founding members of the Micro Four Thirds standard, I generally prefer to use Olympus on OM System and Panasonic on Panasonic.

That being said, the wonderful Panasonic Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 II ASPH ($297) is a worthy alternative to the Olympus 17mm prime (and for less money!). This is the pancake lens that I often use on my Olympus PEN-F. What a great optic. It's compact, fast, sharp and a very useful 40mm equivalent focal length.

Staying in nimble mode, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm f/2.8 Macro lens ($549) is an amazingly compact optic that provides an f/2.8 maximum aperture and 1:1 magnification with a 7.5" minimum focusing distance. Splash-proof and dust-proof construction allows you to work in inclement conditions, and the 120mm equivalent focal length is also useful for portraits and landscape work.

Full frame photographers often debate whether or not to pack their bulky macro lens because of its size and weight. This lens ends the argument before it begins. There's always room for it.

And finally, if you want an all-purpose pro-quality zoom that you can just leave on the camera, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm f/4 IS PRO lens ($1,399) is a great choice. Covering a wide 24mm equivalent to a 200mm telephoto with a constant aperture of f/4, you can photograph practically any wonder you encounter.

Its unique optical image stabilization system works in conjunction with the camera's 5-axis stabilization to form Sync IS, which compensates for up to 6.5 stops of camera shake. Plus you have weather resistant construction, manual focus clutch, and the rounded 7-blade aperture for smooth bokeh.

It's a bit larger than most Olympus travel lenses, but for many, it's the only optic they will need in the field.

There are many other amazing lenses in the Micro Four Thirds catalog. But building your collection around any of these six is a great place to start.

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 #840, April 26, 2022. Today's theme is "Time for a New Personal Project." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

Photography is most interesting when we continually challenge ourselves. And the best way to do that is through personal projects that take us just a bit out of our comfort zone. Now that we're well into 2022, it's time to find that next personal project for you, and that's the top story in today's TDS Photography Podcast.

Tune-In Via Your Favorite Podcast App!

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Time for a New Personal Project

I'm in the business of reinvention. That wasn't my intention, but it certainly has worked out that way. So I'm very familiar with personal projects that help open new doors.

I'm talking about endeavors that you may have had an interest in, but until this point, stayed on the sidelines. What kind of projects could those be? Let's take a look at 5 possible examples.

• Portraits - The pandemic has certainly confined most of us to our corners. But maybe it's time we start working with people again, and even more creatively, begin making portraits. There are so many different types, outdoors with fill reflectors, natural light window, flash and soft boxes. Pick one and shoot a series.
• Macro - Very few subjects garner attention like a beautiful macro photo of an insect or flower. We often have the tools already, but never really got serious about taking our close-up work to the next level.
• Action - Fast cars, horses, and even kids playing soccer present their own unique challenge, both technically and artistically. I'm not talking just any old action photo, but one that is beautiful and captivates the viewer.
• Infrared - This was my 2020 personal project, and it has lead to a series of satisfying online workshops, with our next installment beginning in May. IR has so many facets, both technically and artistically, and it's a true challenge to merge the two camps together into an image that is at once unique and beautiful.
• Analog - So you think you're a good photographer? Load up a roll of color film and see how you feel when it comes back from the lab. My guess is that you will find it humbling. But don't stop there. Challenge yourself to create a series that satisfies you technically and appeals to others artistically.

If you have additional ideas for personal projects, please send them to me or post them on our Facebook page in the comments sections for this podcast. I may just share them in a future show.

Good luck with your project. I hope you helps you expand your photography boundaries.

The 2022 TDS Workshops Update

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:

• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event) - Sold Out
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online) - 2 Seats Available
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical) - 2 Seats Available
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical) - 3 Seats Available

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

My Favorite Adventure Series - A Small Wedding in Iceland

This idea came out of a group conversation that we had in the Humboldt Redwoods where the guys were interested in some of my big assignments from the past. We kiddingly nicknames these stories, "Back in the Day."

I decided to take them up on their suggestion and run semi-regular spots highlighting really cool photography adventures that I've been lucky enough to experience. Here's another one, the 2006 Photoshop Lightroom Adventure in Iceland.

The iPhone 14 Pro to Have a Much Larger 48MP Main Camera: Report

You can read on Petapixel.com.

The iPhone 14 is reportedly set to receive a camera that has four times as many megapixels as the current version that is expected to be released in less than six months.

According to Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, the iPhone 14 will get the pixel upgrade but the improved camera will only be available on the Pro model of the phone in order to tempt buyers to upgrade to the more expensive model. Gurman has a particularly good record when it comes to Apple rumors and leaks, including most recently correctly predicting the Mac Studio as well as the other products announced during the last Apple hardware event.

Not much more is known about the camera, but the 48-megapixel camera upgrade has been rumored for over a year now and if correct, Apple's 2022 phone will be able to deliver more detailed images.

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 #839, April 19, 2022. Today's theme is "Camera Bag Odd Couple: GFX + MFT." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

I'm planning a couple outdoor preflight camping trips in preparation for our upcoming Eastern Sierra Workshop, and I had to laugh when I looked down into my camera bag. What I saw was the photography version of the Odd Couple. How did I end up here? Stay tuned for the first story on today's TDS 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

Camera Bag Odd Couple: GFX + MFT

I've owned the Fujifilm GFX 100S for about a year and the OM System OM-1 for just over a week. The GFX is a handsome medium format mirrorless camera with an impressive sensor. The OM-1 is a svelte micro four thirds body that is a nimble little minx. And funny enough, they make a great tandem.

Fujifilm GFX 100S Medium Format Camera

To be honest, I didn't warm up to the GFX right away. I only had one lens for it, a hefty GF 80mm f/1.7 that was amazing for portraits, but not so good for lightly exploring the world.

Everything changed however, when I purchased the GF 50mm lens. With a full frame equivalent of 40mm (a focal length you know I like), weather resistant design, fantastic aperture ring with 1/3 click-stops, and very smooth focus for both AF and manual, I suddenly fell in love with the camera.

The call the 50mm a "pancake," but that's relative to medium format. And what it did was make the 100S feel like a very sophisticated full frame camera (about the same size), but oozing of Fuji magic and an amazing sensor.

I used the camera exclusively in the Humboldt Redwoods, and I just love many of the images I came home with. Honestly, the most beautiful greens I've every captured. After that trip, I decided that the GFX100S with the 50mm lens belongs in my travel camera bag.

My default settings are Aperture Priority (using that wonderful aperture ring on the lens), Velvia film simulation, auto white balance, and processing the RAW+Jpegs in Capture One Pro.

OM System OM-1 MFT

The OM System OM-1 is my camera for everything else. First, there are the lenses.

• 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II.
• 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO Lens.
• M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 Lens.
• Rokinon 7.5mm f/3.5 Ultra Wide-Angle Fisheye Lens.

And then all of those wonderful features such as Live ND, Starry Sky, and fast burst rate. All packed into a compact package that perfect for a hike or a stroll to dinner.

When Do I Use What?

Here's when I use the Fuji, and then here's when I use the OM-1.

The 2022 TDS Workshops Update

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:

• May 2022 - Infrared Photography Workshop (online event) - Sold Out
• August 2022 - Ultimate B&W Photography Workshop (online) - 3 Seats Available
• Sept. 2022 - Eastern Sierra Photo Workshop (physical) - 3 Seats Available
• Nov. 2022 - Oregon Coast Photography Workshop (physical) - 3 Seats Available

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

My Favorite Adventure Series - The 2008 Beijing Olympics

This idea came out of a group conversation that we had in the Humboldt Redwoods where the guys were interested in some of my big assignments from the past. We kiddingly nicknames these stories, "Back in the Day."

I decided to take them up on their suggestion and run semi-regular spots highlighting really cool photography adventures that I've been lucky enough to experience. Here's one today.

New Podcast Studio Online

I've really missed my old recording studio during this renovation of my photography studio. And to some degree, I bet you have too. Thank you for your audio patience while I've been in transition.

But now I have the new setup online, and we can get back to consistent audio quality, that is, except when I'm on the road. This is the first podcast with the new setup. Time to celebrate!

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.