Photography

Taylor Swift’s dad accused of hitting photographer

Taylor Swift’s dad accused of hitting photographer
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Taylor Swift’s father has been accused of attacking a photographer who was “aggressively pushing their way” towards the singer.

The ‘Bad Blood’ singer’s dad Scott allegedly punched a photographer in Sydney after the Australian leg of her Eras Tour came to an end.

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In an Exhibition of Photographs, Patrick Leahy Shares His Senatorial Sights and Insights

In an Exhibition of Photographs, Patrick Leahy Shares His Senatorial Sights and Insights
click to enlarge A Tibetan man with his son, holding a picture of the Dalai Lama - COURTESY

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  • A Tibetan man with his son, holding a picture of the Dalai Lama

The head monk at the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, assured Patrick Leahy that, despite the signs everywhere prohibiting photography, His Holiness the Dalai Lama said it was fine for the Democratic senator from Vermont to take all the photos he liked. After all, they were friends. During that visit in 1988, Leahy recalled in a recent interview, nearby members of the Chinese secret police were told that their cameras would be seized if they took their own photos. They pointed at Leahy and said, “But he’s doing it.” The monk just smiled and said, “No, he’s not.”

The exceptional position of a deeply respected U.S. senator — who, as he insists, is not a professional photographer but always happens to have a camera with him — has yielded Leahy a vast archive of photographs from his 48 years in office. Fifty-three of them are currently on view in the exhibition “The Eye of Senator Patrick Leahy: Photographs of a Witness to History” at the Vermont Supreme Court Gallery in Montpelier.

The exhibition is neither chronological nor grouped by subject matter. Portraits of presidents and U.S. Supreme Court justices mingle with those of ordinary people. A photo of then-president Bill Clinton’s jacket draped over the back of his chair on Air Force One is formally quite beautiful, an arrangement of blocks of color and line. A picture of kids flying a kite off the edge of a cliff in Afghanistan is breathtaking in its sense of vertigo, lightness and joy.

Only one person could have been in a position to take all these images.

click to enlarge A Vietnamese land mine victim - COURTESY

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  • A Vietnamese land mine victim

Perhaps the most direct evidence of Leahy’s unique perspective is his photographs of bill signings, taken from over the presidents’ shoulders. While media shots framing these ceremonies from the front are standard, Leahy’s images show the president’s hand (Ronald Reagan, righty; Clinton and Barack Obama, lefties), along with the signatures on the bill. The latter often included Leahy’s, when he was (twice) president pro tempore of the Senate.

Leahy’s iconic, color-saturated photo of Reagan’s second inauguration looks like a history painting. Because of bitterly cold weather that day in January 1985, White House staff moved the ceremony indoors to the Capitol Rotunda at the last minute. In the shuffle, Leahy found himself standing directly in front.

“That particular photograph went all over the world,” Vermont state curator David Schutz said, “and became the image of Ronald Reagan’s second inaugural that was most commonly printed.”

Other images in the exhibition let us into the room where it happens. In a series labeled “2010, Washington, DC,” we see then-senator Joe Lieberman of Connecticut explain, to then-president Obama and a closed-door conference of senators, why he was withdrawing crucial support for the Affordable Care Act bill. The images, taken seconds apart, leave no doubt as to Obama’s reaction. The last image cuts to then-vice president Joe Biden giving Leahy a knowing look; he had caught the Vermont lawmaker out as the source of the clicking shutter.

click to enlarge President Barack Obama on Air Force One - COURTESY

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  • President Barack Obama on Air Force One

Though many of Leahy’s photographs have been exhibited and published before, this show comes at a consequential time for both the recently retired politician and the community.

Leahy is “wonderfully reflective right now,” Schutz said. He’s able to spend time looking at his trove of photographs and remembering the circumstances of each one. Schutz is working with archivists at the University of Vermont to document Leahy’s stories, ideally in his own voice, for future exhibitions.

Former Vermont Supreme Court justice Marilyn Skoglund, who has long curated exhibitions in the court’s lobby gallery, said she planned this one as a welcome return since Montpelier’s devastating flood last July. “I just thought it was a great person to start with for the reopening of the gallery,” she said, “and that people would be excited about the opportunity to come in and see his work.”

Leahy uses his photos not only to tell stories — and they all have stories — but also to serve as touchstones for the causes he has promoted over a long legislative career. He kept one image of a refugee from El Salvador over the desk in his Washington, D.C., office, he said, calling it his “conscience photo.” The arresting portrait confronts the viewer, asking, as Leahy put it, “What have you done for poor and powerless people today?”

click to enlarge

  • Courtesy
  • Leahy’s “conscience photo” of a man at a refugee camp in El Salvador

Sharing the image has helped the former senator strengthen support for refugees around the world. U2 vocalist Bono, who is also a human rights activist, was deeply moved by the picture, Leahy said, so he gave him a copy. The two have maintained a friendship ever since.

Both Obama and former Cuban president Raúl Castro received copies of the photograph Leahy took in 2014 of Alan Gross and his wife following the activist’s release from imprisonment in Cuba — which Leahy helped secure. The image is a testament to the impact of fostering cooperation between the two countries.

Overall, “The Eye of Senator Patrick Leahy” conveys the significance of participation as well as observation, and underscores the idea that photography itself can be a form of action.

Asked what he’d like viewers to take away from his exhibition, Leahy offered this advice: “Take your time when you see something. What does it mean to you? Don’t worry about getting yourself in the picture; take things that might mean something to you.”

Blindfolded Blind Dates: Bremerton Photographer Innovates Dating S…

Blindfolded Blind Dates: Bremerton Photographer Innovates Dating S…
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In an innovative blend of photography and blind dating, Bremerton’s Kelsie Redenbaugh has launched ‘Stranger Sessions,’ a unique concept designed to connect two strangers in a photo shoot that doubles as a blind date. By filling out a detailed online questionnaire, participants are matched based on interests, hoping to spark connections, be it romantic or platonic. This novel approach, supported by Redenbaugh’s husband, Collin, aims to differentiate their business in the competitive photography market while potentially playing cupid for Kitsap County locals.

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Breaking the Ice Through the Lens

The sessions begin with participants blindfolded, meeting for the first time in a setting that’s both intimate and public. The blindfolds are removed, and the photo shoot begins, creating a dynamic environment that encourages interaction and breaks down barriers. Redenbaugh, leveraging the questionnaire responses, attempts to pair individuals she believes could click, sometimes even opting for opposites, inspired by the notion that they attract. This method not only aims to make the sessions enjoyable but also to foster a comfortable atmosphere for genuine connections to form.

Community Response and Participation

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Since advertising the concept, Redenbaugh has received over two dozen inquiries, indicating a strong initial interest from the community. Participants are drawn to the potential of meeting someone new, with some open to the idea of friendship if romance doesn’t spark. This openness to connection, regardless of the outcome, highlights a broader interest in novel social interactions, particularly post-pandemic, as people seek new and safe ways to meet.

Future Ambitions and Potential Impact

Launched in February, Stranger Sessions is not just a temporary project but one Redenbaugh envisions as a year-round offering. The ambition is not only to stand out in the local photography scene but also to potentially help individuals find companionship or love. As the concept gains traction, it could influence how people view dating and social interactions, favoring experiences that are not only about the superficial aspects but also about genuine connections.

The innovative approach of combining photography with blind dating could redefine the social landscape, offering a fresh perspective on building relationships. As Stranger Sessions continue to grow, they may well become a staple in the dating scene, encouraging more people to step out of their comfort zones and into the flash of connection.

$56 Billion of Photography Services Market , With a CAGR of 5.7% | Expected to Experience Significant Growth By 2032

$56 Billion of Photography Services Market , With a CAGR of 5.7% | Expected to Experience Significant Growth By 2032
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Photography services Market

Photography services market was valued at $32.6 billion in 2022, and is estimated to reach $56 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2023 to 2032

DELAWARE, WILMINGTON, UNITED STATES, February 28, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ — Photography Services Market,” The photography services market was valued at $32.6 billion in 2022, and is estimated to reach $56 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2023 to 2032.

The photographic service market shows high growth potential in Europe and Asia-Pacific regions. The photographic service market in Europe is a dynamic and diverse industry, encompassing a wide range of products and services catering to various customer segments. Europe is home to many of the world’s leading camera and photographic service equipment manufacturers, as well as numerous photographic service-related businesses and service providers. One of the key sub-segments of the European photographic service market is the consumer market, which includes individual customers who purchase photographic service-related products and services for personal use.

Moreover, the photographic service market in the Asia-Pacific region is rising and growing due to several key factors. One of the primary drivers of growth is the region’s large and rapidly growing population, which includes a rising middle class with increased disposable income. This has led to a significant increase in demand for con
According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled, “Photography Services Market,” The photography services market was valued at $32.6 billion in 2022, and is estimated to reach $56 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2023 to 2032.

The photography services industry is mostly driven by the increasing demand for high-quality visual content across various industries, the rise of social media and online marketing, advances in technology, and the availability of photographic service education and training results in photography services market trends. As businesses and individuals continue to prioritize visual content, the photographic service market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years which surges the photography services market share.

𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐃𝐅 𝐎𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 :- https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/74909

However, one of the major problems hindering the expansion of the photographic service market is the increase in competition. Market competition can also lead to prioritizing quantity over quality. As companies compete to offer the lowest prices, they may need to make adjustments in quality and customer service for the photography services market growth. This can lead to dissatisfied customers who may turn to other vendors for their photography needs. Additionally, increased competition could lead to the commoditization of photography services, with companies offering similar services and packages. This can make it harder for businesses to stand out in the photography services market size.

The photography services market analysis on the basis of type, end-user, and region. By type, the market is divided into commercial photographic service and consumer photographic service. Further, the consumer photographic service segment is classified into wedding photographic service, portrait photographic service, wildlife photographic service, and others. As per end user, the market is divided into individual and commercial. Region wise, the market is divided into North America (U.S., Canada, and Mexico), Europe (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, and the Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Rest of Asia-Pacific), and LAMEA (Brazil, Argentina, UAE, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and Rest of LAMEA).

By type, the market is divided into commercial photographic service and consumer photographic service. The consumer photographic service segment held the major share of the market in 2022 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. Commercial photographic service is the practice of creating photographs for use in commercial contexts, such as advertising, marketing, or sales. Commercial photographers may work on a variety of projects, including product photographic service, fashion photographic service, architectural photographic service, and editorial photographic service which increases the photography services market demand.

𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐬𝐞 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭:- https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-for-customization/74909

By end user, the market is divided into individual and commercial. The individual segment held the major share in the market in 2022 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. Individuals are a significant market segment in the photographic service industry, encompassing a wide range of consumers who purchase photographic service-related products and services for personal or professional use. Individuals in the photographic service market are often characterized by their desire for high-quality, personalized products and services that reflect their individual tastes and interests. Individual trends in the photographic service market are constantly evolving and changing, driven by advances in technology, changing consumer preferences, and emerging cultural trends. One of the key trends in recent years has been the rise of mobile photographic service, with many individuals using their smartphones as their primary photographic service tool. This has led to an increased demand for mobile photographic service accessories and apps that can enhance the quality of images captured on mobile devices.

By region, the market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. The North America region held the major share in the market in 2022 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. The photographic service market in North America is a diverse and thriving industry, encompassing a wide range of products and services catering to a variety of clients and customers. North America is home to many of the world’s leading photographic service companies and businesses, including major camera manufacturers, photographic service equipment retailers, and large-scale photographic service providers. With a large and diverse customer base and a wide range of products and services on offer, the North American photographic service market is likely to continue to be a significant player in the global photographic service industry for years to come.

The major players operating in the market focus on key market strategies, such as mergers, product launches, acquisitions, collaborations, and partnerships. They also have been focusing on strengthening their market reach to maintain their goodwill in the ever-competitive market. Some of the key players in the photographic service market include Fisher Studios Ltd., Carma Media Productions, Bella Baby Photographic Service, Angle Platform, Shutterfly, LLC, Studio Alice Co. Ltd., Getty Images Holdings, Inc., Lifetouch Inc., Portrait Innovations Inc., and Cherry Hill Programs, Inc.

𝐁𝐮𝐲 𝐍𝐨𝐰 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 @ https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/checkout-final/e3180cd68a72e66e16355ac357ac34c8

𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐲 :
• This report provides a quantitative analysis of the market segments, current trends, estimations, and dynamics of the photography services market analysis from 2022 to 2032 to identify the prevailing photography services market opportunities.
• The market research is offered along with information related to key drivers, restraints, and opportunities.
• Porter’s five forces analysis highlights the potency of buyers and suppliers to enable stakeholders make profit-oriented business decisions and strengthen their supplier-buyer network.
• In-depth analysis of the photography services market segmentation assists to determine the prevailing market opportunities.
• Major countries in each region are mapped according to their revenue contribution to the global market.
• Market player positioning facilitates benchmarking and provides a clear understanding of the present position of the market players.
• The report includes the analysis of the regional as well as global photography services market trends, key players, market segments, application areas, and market growth strategies.

𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 :-
• Baby Walker Market
https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/baby-walker-market-A15090

• Badminton Apparel Market
https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/badminton-apparel-market-A15091

• Bagster Bags Market
https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/bagster-bag-market-A15094

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https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/bicycle-horn-market-A15093

David Correa
Allied Market Research
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Magnolia Acres, an event and photography venue, now open in Magnolia

Magnolia Acres, an event and photography venue, now open in Magnolia

Magnolia Acres, an event and photography venue, is now open in Magnolia, owner Sherri Stephens confirmed via email Feb. 14.

“We have owned our beautiful farm property for 29 years and recently fell in love with the idea of converting it into a farm venue and photo studio for our local community,” Stephens said. “We were attracted to building this for our area because there really has not been any farm venues open like this for our photography community and small events community in the area.”

The business offers small-event venue rentals, hourly photography rentals and memberships, Stephens said.

“We desire to work with photographers, event planners and anyone looking for a unique farmhouse venue,” Stephens said.

Stephens said the property has three main areas: the front porch, the barn and the chapel studio. People can rent specific areas or the full farm.

“Our mission at Magnolia Acres is to celebrate family and desire to help you build memories that are as special as you are,” Stephens said. “We want to help you by providing you with a safe place for you to come and make those key memories. Whether it is a small event, elopement or you are planning a photoshoot, we can do it all.”

CP+ 2024: Highlights of the Largest-Ever Photography and Imaging Show

CP+ 2024: Highlights of the Largest-Ever Photography and Imaging Show

On February 22-25, CP+ 2024 unfolded at the Pacifico Yokohama convention plaza. The largest domestic event in the field adopted a hybrid format that combined in-person and online experiences. It drew in about 50,000 people, including photography and imaging enthusiasts, over four exciting days, signaling a vibrant return to pre-pandemic attendance levels. 

From Toy Cameras to Top-of-the-Line Models: A Full Spectrum on Display

Featuring the participation of 88 companies and organizations, the exhibition offered a rich tapestry of offerings. Leading camera manufacturers and photography equipment creators were among the popular venues.

While digital cameras took center stage, exhibits also featured products and services related to film photography. They ranged from compact palm-sized cameras to top-tier models engineered for videography. Together, they put on display a diverse spectrum of offerings from both domestic and international manufacturers.

Canon’s Mixed Reality (MR) Experience Exhibit on February 22.(©JAPAN Forward by Hidemitsu Kaito)
Action Camera Attachable to Pets (Left)(©JAPAN Forward by Hidemitsu Kaito)
Fujifilm’s Compact Palm-Sized Camera (Right) (©JAPAN Forward by Hidemitsu Kaito)

Mirrorless Cameras Lead the Premium Market

In 2023, total shipments of digital cameras, comprising both interchangeable lens and fixed-lens types, reached 7.72 million units. This marked a 3.6% decline compared to 2022, as reported by the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA). 

Against that news, mirrorless cameras, which constitute 80% of interchangeable lens cameras, experienced a significant 18.6% year-on-year growth. This helped drive the industry forward. 

Unlike SLR cameras, mirrorless cameras utilize electronic viewfinders or LCDs for image composition. They offer a lightweight and compact design alongside markedly reduced shutter noise due to electronic shutters. Moreover, integrating AI (artificial intelligence) technology has substantially enhanced their autofocus capabilities, particularly for subjects such as people and vehicles.

Recent models also boast advanced video recording capabilities. This expands their utility from amateur to professional levels for shooting and editing videos.

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Cameras capable of capturing both still images and videos are becoming mainstream. (Provided by the Nikon exhibition booth)

Since around 2000, the shipment of digital cameras has seen rapid growth, gradually replacing film cameras. According to CIPA, in 2010 there was a proliferation of digital cameras. In that year, total camera shipments reached 121.46 million units. However, with the widespread adoption of smartphones and their improved camera functions, the industry has trended toward decline.  This has prompted camera manufacturers to innovate and offer distinctive features to set themselves apart from smartphones.

The bustling venue filled with visitors on February 22. (©JAPAN Forward by Hidemitsu Kaito)

Japanese Manufacturers Making a Global Impact

In the realm of precision equipment and the camera industry, Japanese manufacturers dominate the global market share. It is estimated that the top six companies (Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, Panasonic, OM Digital Solutions) collectively account for over 90% of worldwide shipments.

Panasonic’s Booth on February 22. (©JAPAN Forward by Hidemitsu Kaito)

Nikon and Canon have long competed in the fields of news and sports photography with their top-of-the-line cameras and lenses. Then, about a decade ago, Sony entered the market with mirrorless cameras, creating a three-way competition. In the past, during Olympic years, Nikon and Canon would unveil their top-of-the-line cameras and telephoto lenses at CP+ to vie for attention from fans. 

However, this year, neither company made any significant product announcements. This could be attributed to the postponement of the 2020 Olympics due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It may also be because it has been only three years since both companies released mirrorless cameras to compete with Sony. Those took place following the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Pursuing Sony’s lead in the mirrorless market, Canon and Nikon are being pushed to rethink their strategies and are striving to keep up.

Japan’s digital cameras are making their mark in space as well. Canon and Sony have both contributed camera technology to satellites. In January 2024, Nikon sent over a dozen of their Z9 mirrorless cameras to the International Space Station (ISS). These cameras are intended to replace the DSLRs currently in use on the ISS. Nikon has a longstanding history of collaborating with NASA on space projects. It has assisted in photography efforts in the realm of space exploration spanning over half a century.

Sony is providing camera technology to artificial satellites on February 22.(©JAPAN Forward by Hidemitsu Kaito)

Chinese Manufacturers Also Experiencing Rapid Growth

Chinese manufacturers also had a notable presence at the exhibition, presenting products such as interchangeable lenses and lighting fixtures. Attention was particularly drawn to products distinguished by features like video-compatible lenses and specialized shooting equipment.

Interchangeable lenses by Venus Optics, a Chinese Manufacturer (Left) (©JAPAN Forward by Hidemitsu Kaito)
Cinema 3D VR panoramic camera by Kandao Technology, a Chinese Company (Right) (©JAPAN Forward by Hidemitsu Kaito)

In the 20th century, the camera industry was dominated by manufacturers from Germany, Sweden, and the United States. However, the advent of digital technology brought about profound changes in the landscape. 

Japanese camera manufacturers, such as Sony, Canon, and Nikon, have found themselves compelled to undergo significant restructuring and reform to adapt to this new era. Sony, for instance, emerged as a leading manufacturer of image sensors. It supplies them not only for its own cameras but also for other companies as well. 

Canon has successfully applied its camera technology to the field of medical equipment. Meanwhile, Nikon has made substantial contributions to industrial optical technology. Japan’s finest precision technology shines through, particularly in the fields of optics and imaging.

RELATED:

[A Photographer’s Notes] The Nikon Z f: A Retro-Style Powerhouse

Marketing Race for Mirrorless Cameras Goes to CP+ Trade Show

(Read the report in Japanese.)

Author: Hidemitsu Kaito

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Halal strengthens team with Dutch photographer Ari Versluis

Halal strengthens team with Dutch photographer Ari Versluis

AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS – Amsterdam-based production house and photography agency HALAL has proudly welcomed iconic Dutch photographer and director Ari Versluis to its talent roster. Ari is renowned for his keen eye and the captivating “Exactitudes” series, a remarkable study of the complex dress codes within various social subcultures, illustrating the profound collaboration with Ellie Uyttenbroek. His joining of the HALAL roster brings a wealth of cultural insight and a unique approach to photography. Ari’s work, praised for its attention to detail and penetrating observations of social structures, perfectly complements HALAL’s mission to tell stories that go beyond established norms.

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Gijs Determeijer, Partner at HALAL, expressed, “I’ve been following Ari since he and Ellie Uyttenbroek made the epic portraits of the Gabber culture in the nineties. On our recent collaborations, we’ve had an amazing time, Ari and his team bring so much energy! A joy to work together.”

Ari’s decision to join HALAL is a testament to the agency’s reputation as a crucible for innovative and daring creative work. “HALAL is a place where art and commerciality don’t just coexist; they fuel each other. I am eager to contribute to this vibrant community, where pushing the envelope is not just encouraged, it’s expected,” said Ari.

Roger Deakins Explores Cinematography and Photography in New Mexico

Roger Deakins Explores Cinematography and Photography in New Mexico

AFTER A LONG DAY ON SET—or when the weather isn’t cooperating—Roger Deakins, the two-time Oscar-winning cinematographer behind The Shawshank Redemption, A Beautiful Mind, The Big Lebowski, Skyfall, and 1917, grabs his Leica and goes for a drive. “On the set, there might be 100 crew members, and it’s quite an intense, collaborative process,” he says. “I love going out with my camera, by myself, where it’s my decision when I take a picture or if I don’t take a picture. It’s a far more personal experience.”

Deakins has made movies all over the globe, but New Mexico, a world away from the coastal English town where he grew up, holds a special place for him. After all, he’s not only filmed three widely acclaimed movies here—No Country for Old Men, True Grit, and Sicario—but he’s made some of his most memorable photographs in the Land of Enchantment as well. This month, he returns to Santa Fe with a stunning exhibit of photographs at Obscura Gallery, a signing of his photo book, Byways, and a screening of No Country for Old Men with a Q&A hosted by Collected Works Bookstore at the Violet Crown Santa Fe. Here, Deakins takes us behind the lens of three of his made-in-New Mexico images.

The Passing Storm

“We were shooting In the Valley of Elah [2007]. On the weekend, I’d just drive around, exploring. This is a little cemetery in Albuquerque, on the way to the airport. You can see it from the freeway. I’ve taken a number of photographs here over the years, but on this day, I was just waiting for the right light or a thunderstorm or something natural to contrast with the crosses. It was sort of a lucky day, really.”

Shades of grey: Join The Woodlands Photography Club and enjoy a black-and-white photography workshop

Shades of grey: Join The Woodlands Photography Club and enjoy a black-and-white photography workshop

THE WOODLANDS, TX – The Woodlands Photography Club is a local organization for the serious local photographer who wants to hone his or her craft. Coming up in March is one workshop that spells things out in black and white. The club’s Black and White Photography Workshop is taking place March 23, from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at George & Cynthia Woods Mitchell Library on Ashlane Way.

Members of the club are invited, so you’ll need to sign up if you’re not already a member. The class can fit 30 people maximum, so act quickly by clicking on https://www.woodlandsonline.com/cdps/cditem.cfm?nid=3510/.

The instructor, Mike Schaffner, is an engineer and enjoys the technical side of photography; however, it is the creative and artistic aspect that he loves even more. He admits he has a preference for black and white images, as he finds them more expressive, but not to the exclusion of color images. His favorite types of photography are architectural, landscapes and street photography. Mike is active in two photography clubs, TWPC and the Stoney Brook Camera Club in Franklin, MA).

Discussion and examples showing at the workshop will include:

  • Why we do or do not shoot in B&W
  • The characteristics of a good B&W image
  • What kinds of subjects make good B&W shots
  • How to visualize that the shot will work as a B&W before you take the shot
  • The importance of color when taking B&W shots
  • Processing B&W to maximum effect

Registered attendees can show up empty-handed, or optionally can bring their camera and a notepad pen.

Vivo launches the V30 Pro, promising ‘professional-quality’ portrait photography

Vivo launches the V30 Pro, promising ‘professional-quality’ portrait photography

What you need to know

  • The V30 Pro is the latest in the ‘V’ range of phones from Vivo.
  • The phone comes with a ZEISS Triple Main Camera and ZEISS Style Portrait, which promises “professional-quality portraits.”
  • The V30 Pro will only be released in some markets when it launches.

On February 27, Vivo unveiled the V30 Pro, its latest mid-range handset and the first in the ‘V’ series of phones to benefit from ZEISS innovations. According to the press release, the V30 Pro features a “Vivo ZEISS Co-Engineered Imaging system, elevating smartphone portrait photography to a new level.”

The camera features promise to be the standout of the new handset – incorporating a 50MP selfie camera, a 50MP ultra-wide camera, and a 50MP main camera. There’s plenty of supporting trickery to help you get the best possible pictures as well – including a color temperature sensor, a larger light sensor for low-light conditions, and an improved Aura Light Portrait to allow for greater light adjustment to get your pictures just right.

Close up of the rear camera on the V30 Pro

(Image credit: Vivo)

According to Vivo, the portrait camera features a 50mm focal length “for more realistic and vivid portraits” as well as significantly increasing the pixel count from the previous 12MP portrait camera found on the V29. The wide-angle camera is the V series’ first to come equipped with Auto Focus and introduces an AI Group Portrait mode that Vivo says will work for groups of up to 30 people.

The collaboration with ZEISS also sees Style Portrait being introduced to the handset. This offers six different portrait-style bokeh options and also offers ZEISS Cinematic Video Bokeh, which “uses advanced AI-based depth calculations to achieve a more natural bokeh effect.”

Yongduan Zhou, general manager of overseas products, said that “with each of the three rear cameras offering professional-grade imaging quality that meets ZEISS Optics standards, users can expect an exceptional portrait photography experience.”

Angled view of the V30 Pro, showing how slim it is

(Image credit: Vivo)

Alongside the camera, the V30 Pro has a large 5000 MAh battery that Vivo claims will provide up to 20 days of standby time and supports 80W charging, which means the battery could be fully charged in as little as 46 minutes. Additionally, the battery’s lifespan has been doubled, meaning battery health will remain above 80% for up to 1600 charging cycles, which roughly equates to four years of usage. 

This supports a 120Hz AMOLED display with peak local brightness of up to 2800 nits and maximum overall brightness of up to 1200 nits, which should make the screen easier to see even in bright sunlight. 

Supporting all this is a new flagship processor with 12Gb of RAM. To help keep things cool, an ultra-large cooling system with a huge vapor chamber of 3002 mm2 to improve heat dissipation is built-in. There are also 11 temperature sensors to help keep track of the phone’s condition in real time.

Four different colour variants of the V30 Pro

(Image credit: Vivo)

Vivo has confirmed four colorways for this series: Bloom White, Waving Aqua, Lush Green (which transforms into a deep blue under UV light), and Noble Black. So, there should be a color option to suit just about anyone.

Vivo is yet to confirm either a price or release date for the V30 Pro. Still, the company has confirmed that the phone will be available in “over six markets, including India, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, and Taiwan. The availability, pricing, and specifications may vary based on local market conditions and consumer preferences.”