Are you an opportunistic shooter?

 In photography, an opportunistic shooter refers to a photographer who captures images spontaneously rather than planning shots in advance. They take advantage of unexpected moments, interesting lighting conditions, or fleeting subjects as they arise.

This approach is common in wildlife, street, and documentary photography, where conditions change rapidly, and the best shots often come from being observant and ready rather than staging or anticipating specific scenes.

For example, in bird photography, an opportunistic shooter might capture a hawk diving for prey simply because they were prepared with their camera at the right time, even if they originally set out to photograph songbirds.

Am I an opportunistic shooter? Yes I'm!

Sony vs Canon

 At one point, I was a Sony shooter, but I eventually switched to Canon. Why? Seven years ago, Sony mirrorless cameras were packed with features that Canon simply didn’t offer. So why did I switch to Canon? The answer is simple: Canon's mirrorless cameras now come with features that would have cost me a fortune to get in a Sony setup. But there’s more to the story—this video is about a similar journey.

Crop mode, should you use it?

I've often seen YouTube influencers advise against using crop mode, but I completely disagree. As long as you understand a few key points—crop mode does not increase your lens's focal length, it reduces the resolution of your photos, and you might end anyway cropping the image when editing on your computer—there's no reason to avoid it. It does not make any difference in the image quality if you crop in your camera or in your computer. 

Here is a nice video talking about this. 

All about camera modes

If you're just starting your photography journey, you might believe that reaching a professional level means mastering Manual Mode. After all, it offers full control over your camera settings and unlocks creative possibilities.

While this is partly true, it's important to consider whether Manual Mode is actually the best fit for your photography style. In many cases, other modes may be easier to use and can help you achieve better results more efficiently.

This video can help you in the process of understanding the camera modes and to pick which one is the best configuration for you. 

 

New camera for Bird Watchers

Nikon will be releasing by the end of February a new camera specially designed for bird watchers: the Coolpix P1100. According to news posted at PetaPixel: 'Nikon announced the Coolpix P1100, the latest member of its series of super-zoom bridge cameras. It features a massive 125x optical zoom lens that the company describes as the “gold standard” of its class.'

This camera offers an impressive 3000mm equivalent optical zoom and up to 12,000mm digital zoom. For those unfamiliar with the difference, optical zoom is achieved through the physical movement of the lens elements, while digital zoom is created by processing or cropping the image within the camera.

Naturally, the image quality at 12,000mm will be significantly degraded due to the limitations of digital zoom. Photos captured using optical zoom will be sharper, but even then, don't expect miracles. Once you exceed 1000mm, additional factors such as atmospheric haze can further impact image quality.

The camera is priced at $1,099.95.

For birders who prefer a convenient, all-in-one setup without the hassle of changing lenses and aren't concerned with top-tier image quality, this camera is a viable option. However, for photographers who are passionate about capturing high-quality bird images, this may not be the right choice.

Using EF lenses in your R Series camera?

 

The choice between EF and RF lenses on Canon mirrorless cameras depends on a few factors, including your budget, existing gear, and what you're shooting. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

EF Lenses on Canon Mirrorless

Canon’s EF lenses are designed for their DSLR lineup but can be used on RF-mount mirrorless cameras with the Canon EF-EOS R adapter (or third-party equivalents).

Pros of EF Lenses:

1. Wide Selection: Canon has been making EF lenses for decades, offering a massive range of options at different price points.
2. Affordable Used Market: EF lenses are readily available on the used market, often at lower prices than RF lenses.
3. Compatibility: Many EF lenses work flawlessly on RF-mount cameras when using the adapter, retaining image quality, autofocus and image stabilization.
4. Long Reach for Wildlife: Telephoto EF lenses, like the 100-400mm or 600mm primes, are popular among wildlife photographers.

Cons of EF Lenses:

1. Bulky Setup: The adapter adds extra length and weight, which might feel less balanced on smaller mirrorless bodies.
2. Not Fully Optimized: While EF lenses work well, RF lenses are designed to take full advantage of mirrorless technology. My recommendation is to stick to "L" EF lenses. 3rd party lenses from Tamron or Sigma may look attractive with a low price but they may not work properly in the R Series Camera.
   

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RF Lenses on Canon Mirrorless

RF lenses are specifically built for Canon’s mirrorless R-series cameras, like the R3, R5 Mk I or II and the  R6 Mark I or II.

Pros of RF Lenses:

1. Better Image Quality: RF lenses are optimized for mirrorless, often delivering sharper images, better edge-to-edge sharpness, and improved bokeh.
   
2. Advanced Features: Many RF lenses include advanced optical technologies like faster autofocus, customizable control rings, and superior stabilization.
3. Compact Designs: Certain RF lenses (e.g., the RF 50mm f/1.8 or RF 70-200mm f/2.8) are more compact than their EF counterparts.
4. Future-Proof: Canon is heavily investing in the RF system, so you’ll be better positioned for future upgrades.

Cons of RF Lenses:

1. Higher Cost: RF lenses are generally more expensive than EF lenses.
2. Limited Budget Options: While the RF lens lineup is growing, there are fewer affordable choices compared to EF.
3. No Third-Party Autofocus Lenses (Mostly): Until recently, third-party lens manufacturers couldn’t produce autofocus RF lenses, though this is starting to change.

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Which Should You Choose?

1. If you already own EF lenses: Stick with them and use an adapter. Canon’s EF lenses are still excellent, especially for wildlife photography with telephoto lenses like the EF 100-400mm.
2. If you’re starting fresh: Consider RF lenses for their better compatibility and future-proof design. You could start with versatile lenses like the RF 24-105mm f/4L or RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L if you shoot wildlife.
3. Budget Constraints: Use EF lenses with an adapter to save money, especially since the adapter maintains great performance.

EF 1.4x extender performance

I’ve read numerous reviews and opinions about extenders—some people love them, while others hate them. This note focuses on the Canon EF 1.4x Mark III extender, and it’s worth specifying that most of the negative opinions about extenders often refer to other brands.

The reality is that extenders require more light for autofocus to function properly. When it comes to sharpness, if you pair an extender with a high-quality lens and use a full-frame camera with good dynamic range, you likely won’t notice a significant loss in image quality.

A while back, I bought the Canon EF 1.4x Mark III to use with my Canon R7. Unfortunately, my experience with that combination was disappointing. The performance issues were so frustrating that I stashed the extender in my backpack and didn’t touch it for nearly two years.

Recently, after reading some new reviews, I decided to give the extender another chance—this time pairing it with my Canon R6 and EF 100-400mm Mark II lens. WOW! The results were incredible. Not only does this combination work exceptionally well, but it might even deliver sharper results than using the lens alone!

Here are some pictures taken this weekend in a very cloudy day using this setup.

ISO 12800 and after denoising the level of details is great.

The sharpness of this photo is just incredible.

Visiting Cuba as a Cuban Photographer, the risks

As a Cuban-American, I would love to photograph my country of origin, but believe it or not, visiting Cuba as a Cuban photographer is riskier than visiting as a photographer from another country.

As a Cuban photographer visiting Cuba, the primary risk lies in potential scrutiny from authorities, especially if you capture subjects considered sensitive by the government, such as military installations, police personnel, or politically sensitive areas. Photographing these is strictly prohibited and could lead to legal repercussions. Keep in mind that in most countries, you'll find signs indicating whether photography is allowed or not. In Cuba, however, such alerts are rarely present.

You can take pictures of police in public in the United States.
This is protected by the First Amendment,
which protects freedom of speech and the press no matter what nationality are you.

But things are not that simple. The level of destruction in cities like Havana is well-known. As a tourist, you might photograph the ruins of those buildings and face no issues. However, if I do the same, it could be interpreted as an attempt to document the destruction caused by the revolution. Being a Cuban photographer adds a political dimension to your work that photographers from other countries do not face. This is just one example of many situations that may seem fine, but may not be as acceptable if you are Cuban.

Here are the key risks to consider:

• Equipment confiscation: authorities might confiscate your camera equipment if they suspect you are taking what is considered by them prohibited or questionable photos.
• Harassment or questioning: depending on the location and situation, you might face questioning or even harassment from local officials if your photography raises concerns. I have personally witnessed this situation.
  
• It's important to remember that even if you are an American citizen, when you enter Cuba using your Cuban passport, you are legally recognized by Cuban authorities solely as a Cuban national. This means that, under Cuban law, your U.S. citizenship is not acknowledged during your stay. As a result, the United States government is limited in its ability to provide consular assistance or intervene on your behalf in the event of legal issues or disputes during your visit. This distinction can have significant implications, so it's crucial to understand the potential risks before traveling.

I know of photography tour packages organized by Cubans living in other countries, and I can’t help but imagine what it would be like if you were on one of those tours and your Cuban guide got involved in one of these situations and was detained by Cuban authorities?

To be fair, this is not a situation unique to Cuba. Photographers from countries like China or Russia may face similar risks when photographing in their home countries. In such cases, local authorities often scrutinize photographic activities more closely, particularly if the subject matter is deemed sensitive or politically charged. For these photographers, their work can inadvertently take on a political dimension, making them more vulnerable to legal or social repercussions compared to foreign photographers capturing the same scenes. This highlights the broader challenges faced by photographers working within countries where freedom of expression and access to certain subjects are heavily regulated.

When living in another country, you become accustomed to your newly acquired rights and may forget that the freedoms you take for granted are not the same in Cuba or other countries. Always do your homework to avoid running into problems.

A beautiful story emerging from an obscure past

New generations of Americans, along with many from the current generation, need to be reminded of this critical chapter in history. It was a time when a nation sought to expand its territory, unknowingly opening a Pandora's box of consequences—shaping geopolitics, fueling conflicts, and altering the course of global history.

AFP photographer Eric Schwab recorded the horrors of the Holocaust -- the crematoria, the piles of skeletal bodies and emaciated faces -- as he went from one Nazi extermination camp to the next in the spring of 1945 searching for his mother. Source.

This article from France24 highlights a deeply moving and personal story of an AFP photographer's journey to uncover his mother's harrowing experience in Nazi concentration camps. It sheds light on the intergenerational impact of trauma, the resilience of survivors, and the power of photography as a medium to connect with history and preserve it for future generations.

The story is particularly compelling because it intertwines the personal with the historical, reminding us that behind every statistic or historical account lies a human story of pain, courage, and survival. It also underscores the role of photography in documenting truths that may otherwise be lost to time.

This account serves as an important reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and the importance of continuing to educate people about it, especially in an era where misinformation and denial persist. It’s a powerful testament to how personal narratives can bring history to life and ensure that we never forget.

From last weekend, picture analysis

This is a beautiful close-up image of a flower with a strong focus on its details. Here is why I like this picture.

Picture taken using a Canon R6 w/EF100-400L Mk2.

The flower is positioned slightly off-center, adhering to the rule of thirds, which makes the composition more engaging. The surrounding blurred background effectively isolates the subject, ensuring the viewer's attention is drawn to the flower.

The lighting highlights the delicate texture of the petals and the vibrant yellow of the flower's center. The contrast between the bright flower and the darker, muted background creates a dramatic effect that makes the subject pop.

The shallow depth of field is skillfully used, blurring the background while keeping the flower in sharp focus. This technique enhances the sense of depth and draws attention to the intricate details of the flower.

The natural white and yellow tones of the flower contrast beautifully with the dark green and brown tones in the background. This contrast adds vibrancy and emphasizes the subject further.

The overall mood of the photo is serene and introspective. The dark background gives it a sense of mystery, while the flower itself symbolizes life and beauty amidst simplicity.

Are extenders good?

Yes, if you know how and when to use them. But you better watch this video from Simon d’Entremont, a wildlife photographer who has taken more than 500,000 photos using them!

Is the digital camera market recovering?

It's no secret that the digital camera market has shrunk in recent years. According to some analysts, this trend is primarily due to the rise of smartphones with better cameras and the impact of the pandemic.

However, a recent report published by PetaPixel indicates that digital camera sales in Japan increased in 2024 compared to 2023.

Canon’s sales volume in 2024 was 151.4% of its 2023 level. Fujifilm landed in second place with an 18.6% market share.

Market Recovery Indicators:

• Increased Shipments: The Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA) reported that global shipments of mirrorless cameras reached approximately $17 billion in the first half of 2023, marking a 20% year-over-year increase and setting a record high for the third consecutive year.

• Growth Projections: The global digital camera market size was valued at USD 7.16 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8% from 2024 to 2030.

The shift towards smartphones with advanced camera capabilities continues to impact the digital camera market, necessitating innovation and adaptation from traditional camera manufacturers.

I believe digital cameras will always have a market, even as they compete with smartphones. The fact remains that, due to size limitations, the image quality of photos taken with smartphones cannot match that of mirrorless cameras. Over time, lenses and digital cameras will continue to become smaller and more efficient, but their superior image quality will ensure their place in the market.

More than 70,000 pictures

I joined Flickr in 2006. At the beginning this platform served me as the media used to hold pictures that I used in my blogs relative to Ultra Mobile PCs. Later on I started to use it as a backup for my photography hobby. Today I noticed that I have reached the milestone of more than 70,000 pictures in this platform!

According to Flickr Statistics, this is the most voted picture from my Profile.

Newborn Baby Photography

While I’m primarily a wildlife photographer, I also enjoy doing event photography, including public events, birthdays, and sports. For these occasions, I adopt a casual style, capturing what most would consider candid moments. My subjects aren’t posed; they’re simply going about their lives, and I’m there as a witness, preserving those authentic moments.

I love this approach because it feels natural, and I dislike asking people—especially kids—to pose. More often than not, they end up standing stiffly in what I call the "penguin pose," accompanied by a forced, "Terminator-style" smile.

However, there’s one type of photography that intimidates me: newborn baby photography. While I’ve taken pictures of my grandsons when they were little, those were more personal than professional.

To me, newborn baby photography requires an immense amount of patience and a nurturing touch that I feel is often best exemplified by women. This video beautifully illustrates what I mean.

 

To be always ready

I can’t overstate the importance of always being ready as a wildlife photographer. The BBC recently published an article that perfectly illustrates what I mean.

Just the other day, I was at a local park with a lake when an otter suddenly emerged from the bushes, sprinting toward the water. By the time I raised my camera and attempted to take a photo, it was too late. The otter had disappeared into tall grass, and the camera couldn’t lock focus. I had missed the brief moment when it ran across the shorter grass, clearly visible.

It felt like I’d lost a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to photograph one of the most graceful animals I’ve ever encountered.

Spot were I lost view of the otter.

The Best States for Photographers

Florida is not in that list. The Sunshine State is too flat and after a while the landscape becomes repetitive, it's either beaches or wetlands. 

According to the list published by AOL, the best state for photographers is Hawaii. 

"It’s no wonder why photographs of Hawaii sell worldwide. It’s a beautiful place that absolutely sparkles in pictures. That must be why the average annual salary for a photographer in Hawaii is $91.277. The revenue potential for photographers is said to be $155,112."

Photographers' salaries in Florida vary based on experience, specialization, and location. According to Indeed, the average hourly wage for photographers in Florida is $21.14. This equates to an annual salary of approximately $44,000, assuming full-time employment. SalaryExpert reports a higher average annual salary of $60,864, with entry-level positions starting around $44,457 and senior-level roles reaching up to $74,488.

Panama City ($89,000) and Fort Lauderdale ($57,000) offer higher average pay rates for photographers compared to other Florida cities. These two cities are famous for their beaches.

Specializations can also impact earnings. For instance, the average salary for a wedding photographer in Florida is $63,028, with a typical range between $55,394 and $73,027.

It's important to note that these figures are averages and can vary based on factors such as experience, location within the state, and the specific type of photography work.

Godox is releasing 3 new flashes

According to a recent article on PetaPixel, Godox is set to release three new compact and affordable flashes.

While I haven’t tested these new flashes yet, I’ll admit I’ve fallen into the trap of buying compact flashes in the past. Although they’re better than having no flash at all, their limited features and performance often leave much to be desired. To put it politely, the results have been far from impressive.

Camera Design

 I recently came across an article on Digital Camera World that raises an excellent point about camera design.

I wholeheartedly agree. Current Canon cameras lack the classic design elements that once made the brand so iconic. Personally, if I had to choose between the design of my Canon 5D Mark III and my Canon R6 Mark I, I’d pick the 5D every single time—with just one modification: adding an articulated display.

It feels like Canon has leveraged the touchscreen capabilities of the R series displays to replace many of the buttons and design features that were integral to its older DSLRs. Is this a step forward? Maybe. But one thing is clear: it doesn’t quite replicate the professional, tactile experience of the classic DSLR design.

Please do not do this

I recently took this picture of somebody feeding gulls. 

Feeding gulls with crackers/bread is not advisable for several reasons:

Nutritional Deficiency: Bread and crackers, especially white bread, lacks essential nutrients that birds need. Feeding them bread can lead to malnutrition, as they may fill up on bread and neglect healthier, natural foods.

Health Problems:  A diet high in bread can cause health issues for birds, such as:
    -Angel wing in waterfowl, a deformity caused by malnutrition.
    -Digestive issues, as bread can ferment in their stomachs.

Dependency on Humans: Feeding birds like gulls can make them overly reliant on humans for food, disrupting their natural foraging behavior. It may also increase their aggressiveness towards humans or other birds as they compete for food.

Encouraging Aggressive Behavior: Gulls that associate humans with food may become more aggressive in seeking food, potentially leading to conflicts with people or other animals. In urban settings, this can contribute to nuisance behavior, such as scavenging or attacking food directly from people.

Environmental Impact: Feeding wildlife, including gulls, human food can disrupt local ecosystems. It may cause an increase in gull populations, which could lead to overcrowding, competition for natural food sources, and the spread of disease.

For these reasons, it's best to let gulls forage naturally and avoid feeding them crackers, bread or other inappropriate human foods.

I absolutely love this photo I captured a while back

 Meditating Young Woman.

Click On the Picture to enjoy the details

This image evokes a peaceful and reflective mood, thanks to the soft, golden lighting and the subject’s contemplative posture. Here are some thoughts about the image:

1. Lighting and Atmosphere: The golden-hour lighting enhances the warm, serene atmosphere of the scene, with a gentle backlight creating a pleasing glow around the subject and the surrounding environment.

2. Composition: The subject is positioned on the wooden structure with ample negative space to the right. This creates a sense of solitude and draws attention to the lush natural surroundings. The soft blur in the foreground adds depth.

3. Subject and Emotion: The person leaning on the railing appears introspective, adding a narrative element. Their casual attire complements the natural, relaxed feel of the setting.

4. Technical Considerations: The background blur (bokeh) is beautifull, isolating the subject and emphasizing the tranquil setting.The photo was taken using a Canon R7 and a Zoom Lens EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM, the use of a Zoom Lens add compression which give the picture an extra touch adding more details to the background.
   

5. Foreground Elements: The blurred plants in the foreground add a layer of depth re-enforcing the 3D effect.
   

Overall, to me, this is a strong image that captures a quiet moment in nature, with excellent use of lighting and composition to convey a peaceful mood.