His photo features the Bodhisattva statue on the peak of Ba Den Mountain in the southern province of Tay Ninh. It was captured at dawn in October 2023.

This statue is one of more than 40 ancient Buddhist statues at Bo Da Son, a national relic site in the northern province of Bac Giang. Situated at a height of 986 metres above sea level on the peak of Ba Den Mountain, the 72m-tall statue is the quintessence of religion, culture, and arts.

Tuan Viet’s photograph surpassed a total of 415,000 entries taken by more than 74,000 photographers from 206 countries and territories worldwide to become the only Vietnamese representative to make the list.

In particular, the image of the Bodhisattva statue on the peak of Ba Den Mountain now ranks first on the list on the website of the awards.

The winning works are set to be exhibited at Somerset House in London, the UK, this April.

Created by the World Photography Organisation, the Sony World Photography Awards are held annually. More than 1.5 million images from more than 200 countries and territories have been entered to the awards since their initial inception. This year marks the 11th edition of the event.

Landscapes are an incredibly fruitful avenue of photography, allowing those passionate about nature to step into the great outdoors with their cameras and take some wonderful shots of top scenic scenes.

The great news is that you can take fantastic landscape shots with basic equipment, such as a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a kit lens, sturdy tripod and a few filters. The coast is a fabulous place to begin your journey into landscapes photography, it’s ever changing and presents a decent challenge to keep your creative juices flowing.

• To shoot stunning landscapes of your own, check out the best cameras for landscape photography

Reader of PhotoPlus: The Canon Magazine, Alan Burchell, is a retired archaeologist from Cornwall and also served in the military and police. On retirement he became a mature student at Exeter University, reading archaeology to Masters level – here he also discovered he was dyslexic and dyscalculia. “This makes it difficult for me to completely understand manipulation of numbers and reading manuals,” he says. This hasn’t held him back with his photography, but Alan asked for our help to learn to use his Canon kit to capture local scenery.

We paired him up with professional travel photographer David Clapp to show him the ropes on a day out around the beautiful North Cornwall coast in the UK. Here’s some of the top tips David taught Alan on their workshop together.

David Clapp

Canon landscape and travel photographer David is based in South Devon, but enjoys travelling the world with his Canon kit. Running seminars for Canon and his own photography workshops, David was the perfect pro to show our Apprentice Alan how to capture great seaside scenes and seascapes on the North Cornwall coast.

1. Use Av mode

“I got Alan to set his Canon EOS 5D Mk IV to Aperture Priority (Av) mode,” says David. “So he could ensure his lens’s aperture was always around f/8 to f/11 for the best image quality, good depth of field, and totally sharp scenes. In Av mode, you set the aperture and ISO (we set ours to 100-200), and your camera sets the shutter speed for a standard exposure.”

2. Manual Focus

David explains how he focuses manually to infinity on his lens: “I always use the infinity L marker on lenses to focus to infinity for sharp landscape shots. Learn which point along the L marker to manually focus on with your own lenses, checking on the screen in Live View and zooming into the scene. 

“Believe it or not, temperature can affect the infinity focusing point, due to the expansion and retraction of metal components in the lens. The L-shaped zone at the end of the focusing range is there to allow infinity focus at all times, should heat or cold cause the infinity point to drift.”

3. Canon EOS R3

David has been biding his time to buy the right mirrorless camera, as he’d been happy with his 5D Mark IV images – but after trying out a Canon EOS R3 full-frame mirrorless, he instantly upgraded.

“The R3 is my first new camera in eight years! I now realise my future is a hybrid camera, for both stills and video. The R3 is a behemoth. This camera will revolutionise my photography world. I’ve started shooting beautiful videos of wildlife at sunrise – and using it for close-up orchid photography yesterday, it was so accurate with focus peaking and tracking.”

4. Move and compose handheld first

“Sometimes people can be too quick to fix their camera on a tripod in one spot and start shooting,” says David, “I like to look and move around a scene first, shooting handheld to find the location and height that captures the scene the best. Then I will set up my tripod and fine-tune my exposure and focus at this point.”

5. Neutral-Density filters

Alan has only used ND grad filters for darkening skies, but to make the seascapes in sunshine appear more interesting, David showed him how to use an ND for long exposures – even during the day.

“We had Alan’s camera locked on his tripod first. But before I screwed a spare B+W brand 10-stop 77mm ND filter on Alan’s 24-105mm, first we focused, as it’s hard to do so once a dark ND is on your lens.”

“We then blocked Alan’s viewfinder, as light goes into the camera’s sensor during long exposures in the day and affects your results.” A common problem with strong ND filters is they cause color casts, but David said you can overcome this by simply setting a custom white balance in your camera menu, using the color cast filter shot.

6. Mono Picture Style

Featureless blue skies without interesting clouds and harsh early-afternoon light aren’t a landscape photographer’s best friend, so David suggested we shoot some black-and-white images to make the most of the conditions. “The best way to shoot in black and white is to use the Monochrome Picture Style on your Canon, so you can see how the shot is working when colour is removed,” says David.

7. Drop-in Filter Mount Adapter EF-EOS R

“I still mostly use Canon EF lenses on my EOS R3,” says David, “but rather than the usual Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R, I use the Drop-in Filter Mount Adapter EF-EOS R. I can use it for attaching EF lenses while shooting with my R3, but the real bonus is I only need one size of smaller filters for any EF lens I use on my R3. I can drop in an ND filter or a circular polarizer – and it won’t get dusty or wet on the end of my lens!”

8. Strong and tall pro tripod

A solid tripod is essential for any landscape-type shots, but a tall tripod is especially useful for seascapes when you need to dig the feet into wet sand, or compose with water lapping around the tripod legs.

“Tripods are also essential for sharp shots during long exposures, and for panoramas and bracketing images, as it keeps your camera totally still,” says David. “My beat-up, beefy Gitzo 4542LS offers a good compromise of weight and strength. It has a levelling base with a bubble level – perfect for accurately composing shots. I use it with my trusty, versatile Really Right Stuff BH-55 ball head.”

9. L-bracket for EOS bodies

Both David and Alan had L-brackets for their Canon EOS bodies, so they could quickly toggle between horizontal and vertical shooting. “I use a SunwayFoto PCL-R3 L-bracket for my R3, which enables me to access the ports and camera battery drawer,” says David. “It also allows full rotation of the screen, plus the standard Arca-Swiss system that’s compatible with most ballheads.”

10. Infrared photo tips

Light is measured in nanometres. The visible spectrum is between the values 350nm (violet) and 700nm (red). Infrared is the next wavelength band after the colour red, between 700nm and above. “Most digital cameras contain IR blocking filters that stop IR mixing with the visible spectrum, but my IR-converted EOS RP has had this filter removed and a quartz filter installed to protect the sensor’s surface,” explains David.

“Using the Drop-in Filter Mount Adapter EF-EOS R, I can drop one of my three IR filters in front of the sensor. That filter blocks most of the visible light spectrum, but mixes it with a bit of infrared – it is this mix that gives the most creative results.”

If you’re really into landscapes photography, you’ll want to check out the best landscape lenses. David uses a Canon EOS R3. To see his stunning portfolio check out his Instagram, or to book a workshop visit his website.

Apple is now working on the iPhone 16 series which is going to be launched in the second half of 2024. As the development progresses, more and more features are being leaked into the public arena by tipsters and analysts. This time, it is all about the new Capture Button. With the iPhone 15, Apple introduced the new Action Button, and now with iPhone 16 models, it is rumored to reveal a Capture Button with some amazing camera functionalities. Know what the recent leak revealed about the iPhone 16 Capture Button.

iPhone 16 camera features

The presence of a Capture Button in the iPhone 16 model was rumored earlier too, however, its functionalities were unknown. Later Apple analyst Mark Gurman revealed that the Capture Button would be used for recording videos. Then more information about the new iPhone 16 button was leaked indicating the ramping up of its zooming and focusing capabilities. Now, according to a Weibo leak by Instant Digital (via Macrumors), the iPhone 16 Capture Button will have some professional camera functionalities such as capturing images and videos with the ability for users to adjust focus with a light press.

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The reports said that these features can be seen in DSLR or mirrorless cameras which use the shutter button to lock in focus and full press to capture the scene. It was also revealed that the new capture button highlights Apple’s initiatives towards the iPhone’s focus on photography. However, these all are rumored functionalities of the iPhone 16 camera button and it does not provide any credibility till Apple announces the button and its feature.

Earlier an iPhone 16 prototype was leaked which showcased the placement of the Capture Button. Based on the leaked images, it is anticipated that the iPhone 16 Capture Button will be placed on the bottom right of the device.

Also, read these top stories today:

More Than Just Chip Power! Nvidia and Cisco are teaming up to make it easier for corporations to build their own AI computing infrastructure. Cisco will offer Nvidia-based equipment along with its networking gear. Find out more here.

Bluesky Social Goes Public! After a year of staying in the invite-only phase, former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey’s decentralized social media platform Bluesky Social has opened for the public. Dive in here.

Apple Defeats AliveCor Suit! A US District Judge has ruled that the iPhone maker won’t have to face a lawsuit alleging its watch copied heart-monitoring technology from a Khosla Ventures LLC-backed startup, AliveCor. Read all about it here.

The Spring Festival, the most significant traditional celebration in Chinese culture, marks a momentous occasion for family gatherings and shared joy. Every household adorns their doors with red couplets and colorful lanterns, while a diverse array of traditional delicacies enriches the festive atmosphere of the New Year’s Eve dinner. Across the globe, various regions are gearing up to welcome a surge of visitors and lively celebrations, allowing happiness to reach its peak during this special time.

As we approach the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Dragon, the dragon rightfully takes center stage. In the submissions to our “Sharing China” photo contest, dragons in various forms often become the central focus through the lenses of photographers both at home and abroad. Through these photographic works, we aim to take you on a journey exploring the diverse styles of dragon dances from various regions, highlighting different dragon-related elements, and providing a deep immersion into the vibrant traditions associated with the Lunar New Year.

Let us warmly welcome the auspicious dragon and together create a symphony of happiness for the new year.

No cameras allowed! Iconic attractions where photography is banned

In a world where most of the things revolve around Instagrammable moments and the pursuit of the perfect travel snapshot, it will be disheartening to note that certain renowned landmarks don’t allow p…

Miami, FL

(33127)

Today

Sunshine. High around 75F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. Low 59F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph.

Updated: February 7, 2024 @ 12:31 am

The Office of the Clerk in New Zealand has unveiled the fifth edition of the revered reference book, ‘Parliamentary Practice in New Zealand’. The comprehensive guide, initially published in 1985 by David McGee, a long-serving Clerk, has been the go-to source for understanding parliamentary rules, practices, and procedures.

Reflecting Evolving Parliamentary Practices

The latest edition encapsulates the updates and developments in New Zealand’s parliamentary system up until early 2023. Noteworthy adjustments include the establishment of the Petitions Committee, alterations from the Review of Standing Orders 2020, and the enactment of the Legislation Act 2019. The edition also reflects the adaptations necessitated by the global COVID-19 pandemic.

First to Feature Parliamentary Photography

Marking a significant first, this edition incorporates photography that vividly documents democracy in action within the New Zealand Parliament. This visual element brings to life the otherwise textual chronicles of Parliament’s workings, adding an engaging, human touch to the guide.

Striving for Greater Accessibility

The fifth edition has undergone major revisions to enhance accessibility for Members of Parliament, parliamentary staff, and the general public. It aims to be more user-friendly, shedding light on how Parliament has modernized and adapted to the multifaceted challenges brought about by the pandemic. This new edition, now available online and in the Parliament gift shop, strives to be a more intuitive, enlightening resource for those interested in the machinations of New Zealand’s democracy.

David Wilson, the current Clerk of the House and editor of the new edition, underscored the dedicated effort by the staff of the Office of the Clerk and Parliamentary Service in producing this valuable guide. The publication continues to honor the legacy of David McGee, whose significant contributions to the parliamentary guide remain invaluable, even after his retirement.

The winners of this year’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award have been revealed.

The 25 images in the running for this year’s competition received over 75,000 votes, with British amateur photographer Nima Sarikhani eventually clinching top spot.

“Nima’s breathtaking and poignant image allows us to see the beauty and fragility of our planet,” says Director of the Natural History Museum, Dr Douglas Gurr. 

“His thought- provoking image is a stark reminder of the integral bond between an animal and its habitat and serves as a visual representation of the detrimental impacts of climate warming and habitat loss.”

The four ‘Highly Commended’ finalists that also charmed wildlife lovers include ‘The Happy Turtle’ by Tzahi Finkelstein, ‘Starling Murmuration’ by Daniel Dencescu, ‘Shared Parenting’ by Mark Boyd and ‘Aurora Jellies’ by Audun Rikardsen.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum in London.

Ice Bed by Nima Sarikhani

A polar bear carves out a bed from a small iceberg before drifting off to sleep in the far north, off Norway’s Svalbard archipelago. Having spent three days desperately searching for polar bears through thick fog in the far north off Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, the expedition vessel Nima was on decided to change course. It turned and headed to the southeast, where there was still some sea ice. Here they encountered a younger and an older male. Just before midnight, the young male clambered onto a small iceberg and, using his strong paws, clawed away at it to carve out a bed for himself before drifting off to sleep.

Location: Off Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, Norway

Aurora Jellies by Audun Rikardsen

Moon jellyfish swarm in the cool autumnal waters of a fjord outside Tromsø in northern Norway illuminated by the aurora borealis. It’s common for this species to gather in their hundreds under the aurora borealis. Sheltering his equipment in a self-made waterproof housing, Audun used a single exposure as well as his own system for adjusting the focus and aperture during the exposure. This enabled him to capture the reflection of the sky’s colours on the surface of the water and at the same time light up the jellyfish with flashes. Moon jellyfish are common in all oceans and are easily recognised by their four rings, which are in fact their genitals.

Location: Tromsø, Northern Norway

Shared Parenting by Mark Boyd

A pair of lionesses devotedly groom one of the pride’s five cubs in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Early in the morning, Mark watched as these lionesses groomed one of their five cubs in their territory in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. The evening before they’d set off to hunt, leaving the cubs hidden overnight in dense bushes. Returning from their unsuccessful mission, they’d called the cubs out onto the open grassland. Females raise each other’s cubs as their own, sharing parenting duties. Here the youngster was clearly enjoying the moment of affection and attention.

Location: Maasai Mara, Kenya

Starling Murmuration by Daniel Dencescu

A mesmerising mass of starlings swirl into the shape of a giant bird on their way to communal roosts above the city of Rome, Italy. Daniel was mesmerised by the movements of the starlings as they formed colossal organic shapes in the sky. Each day, as they returned from foraging, they would gather in large numbers and perform spellbinding aerial shows, known as murmurations, on their flight home to their communal roosts. In a bid to locate the best roosting sites at which to capture the spectacle, Daniel spent hours following the starlings around the city and suburbs of Rome. Finally, on this cloudless winter’s day, the flock didn’t disappoint, swirling into the shape of a giant bird.

Location: The city of Rome, Italy

The Happy Turtle by Tzahi Finkelstein

A Balkan pond turtle shares a moment of peaceful coexistence with a northern banded groundling dragonfly in Israel’s Jezreel Valley. Tzahi was positioned in his hide in Israel’s Jezreel Valley photographing shore birds when he spotted a Balkan pond turtle walking in the shallow water. At first, he wasn’t interested in it and carried on watching the birds. It wasn’t until a northern banded groundling dragonfly flew past his lens in the direction of the turtle that his focus changed. The dragonfly unexpectedly landed on the turtle’s nose, but instead of snapping up the insect, the turtle appeared to be experiencing pleasure from the interaction as they shared a moment of peaceful coexistence in the midst of the swamp’s murky waters.

Location: Jezreel Valley, Israel