Hubble’s largest-ever near-infrared image will help researchers discover galaxies far far away

Galaxies imaged via the 3D-DASH technology. © Lamiya Mowla While the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has been receiving a lot of attention lately (notably, it was hit by a little space rock), Hubble continues to be a faithful performer as it observes the sky. Recently, a team of astronomers led by Lamiya Mowla at… Continue reading Hubble’s largest-ever near-infrared image will help researchers discover galaxies far far away

An introduction to microscopic photography

This ice crystal was approximately 1 mm in size. The picture was made at 2:00 pm and the temperature was 14 F. This type of flake is called a stellar dendrite. Michael Peres This post has been updated. It was originally published on Aug. 26, 2015. Michael Peres loves photographing the tiny details of our… Continue reading An introduction to microscopic photography

How to get a blurry background in portraits

Dan Bracaglia A blurry, out-of-focus background is often seen as a sign of a professional or high-quality portrait. While it’s certainly a bit of a simplistic take, it’s undeniable that portraits with a sharp subject and a soft, creamy background are popular, and a look that many photographers want to create. Here’s how.  What makes… Continue reading How to get a blurry background in portraits

This $15 million Leica 0-series is the most expensive camera ever sold

This Leica 0-Series Model 105 is one of just a dozen left today. When PopPhoto first reported on the 40th Leitz Photographica Auction, the former camera of Leica founder Oskar Barnack was up for grabs and expected to fetch a nice little $3 million. Well, the gavel has fallen, and Barnack’s Leica 0-Series Model 105… Continue reading This $15 million Leica 0-series is the most expensive camera ever sold

How to be a respectful photographer when visiting national parks

Olympic National Park. Dan Bracaglia This summer, it’s nearly certain that people will be heading to the great outdoors. As we look for ways to escape the heat and pandemic woes in crowded cities, many of us will turn to national parks and other public lands for respite. And, plenty will bring their cameras (or,… Continue reading How to be a respectful photographer when visiting national parks

The Nikon Z9 uses a Sony sensor, so what?

Nikon said it designed the Z9’s sensor; TechInsights says Sony made it. What gives?. Nikon The internet, or at least a portion devoted to digital photography news, is suddenly aflutter. A new report from the folks over at TechInsights just revealed the maker of the imaging sensor at the heart of the Nikon Z9 flagship… Continue reading The Nikon Z9 uses a Sony sensor, so what?

Best strobe lights for 2022

Flashpoint Best Portable Strobe Profoto B10 Plus Check Price Best Overall Flashpoint XPLOR 600 Check Price Best Strobe for Drones Lume Cube Drone Strobe Check Price The phrase “strobe lights” means something different to photographers than it does DJs or haunted house curators. Good light is as crucial a tool to photography as a nice… Continue reading Best strobe lights for 2022

European Union agrees on USB-C mandate for cameras, smartphones, and more

The new regulation will affect small- and medium- sized gadgets. Getty Images After a decade of attempts, the European Union has agreed to implement new regulations that aim to simplify the way you charge all electronics. The upcoming law mandates the use of USB-C chargers for smartphones, cameras, and more. And though it carries no… Continue reading European Union agrees on USB-C mandate for cameras, smartphones, and more

10 ways to improve your outdoor smartphone portrait shots

Getty Images With proms, college graduations, and even just plain old family barbecues coming up over the next few months, we thought we’d put together some of the best ways to improve the outdoor portraits you shoot with your smartphone. With bright midday sunlight, bustling crowds, and many other challenges, these can be tricky shots… Continue reading 10 ways to improve your outdoor smartphone portrait shots

Cannonball! Dive in and show us your best water shots

The pond at Monet’s garden in France. Marissa Wu Pools, water parks, beaches, rivers, lakes: Summer is the season to live by the water. It’s the stuff of childhood memories—family vacations, seafood feasts, and bright pool noodles floating under the hot estival sun. This week’s theme invites you to dive in and share your favorite… Continue reading Cannonball! Dive in and show us your best water shots