Photography

Meet Karen Mason-Blair, photographer of Seattle’s grunge glory days

Meet Karen Mason-Blair, photographer of Seattle’s grunge glory days

Seattle-based photographer Karen Mason-Blair is considered a legend in the world of grunge. She is known for taking some of the most iconic photos of Seattle’s music scene during the late 80s through the 90s, including artists such as Alice In Chains, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Duff McKagan from Guns N’ Roses. Her work has also been featured in various publications such as Entertainment Weekly and People Magazine.

Mason-Blair’s first-hand experience inside the grunge movement gives fans a unique look into Seattle’s beloved music icons and offers an authentic account of interactions with musicians that helped put the PNW on the map.

Mason-Blair grew up in the Seattle area and graduated from Edmonds High School. She reflects on her years before officially stepping into the profession, “I was the girl that always had a camera, and had posters all over my wall of bands I loved. I studied photography through magazines and albums. Once I realized you can marry music and photography, I was done, because I loved both, so this is my dream job.”

After receiving a degree in commercial photography from Seattle Central College, she moved to Hollywood to follow her passion, “I moved because I couldn’t be an entertainment photographer in Seattle and had gotten a studio at The Brewery in LA. While there, Mother Love Bone got signed, and they called me from their limo and invited me to celebrate with them.”

Mason-Blair started photographing bands like Metallica, Megadeath, Metal Church, Poison and Great White, “I also took photos of the Scorpions, The Ramones, Billy Idol and more.”

Despite her success in the LA scene, home was beckoning to Mason-Blair, “At a certain point though, LA was no longer my jam and I moved back to Seattle right when the grunge scene started to take off.”

Mason-Blair’s return to Seattle was well-timed. As grunge exploded into international popularity, she was already friends with the rising artists and became well-known in the music community for her prolific photography style and friendly persona.

Even with her fiery passion and connections, her line of work wasn’t easy, “The whole time I had to hustle. It’s very hard to make a living in art, as most art needs to be subsidized, which is sadly a proven fact. Every job I got I had to work extremely hard for. I also had to pay rent on my studio, buy my gear and just keep going. I would also cold call people daily to try to get more gigs. After a photo session with the band Collective Soul, I would then call up magazines to try to sell the photos to them. I would try to utilize that, which is basically what stock photography is today. Eventually, I ended up signing to a stock agency that would sell my imagery for me.”

Regarding that electric time in her life, Mason-Blair recalls her nostalgia from the era, “The thing about the grunge movement is we knew we loved the music. What we didn’t know was that the whole world was going to love the music, too. Band members would also attend each other’s shows, and there was a sense of community and support amongst the musicians, which is why there was a Temple of the Dog and Mad Season.”

Her most photographed band is Seattle’s own Alice In Chains. Mason-Blair notably photographed the group numerous times, including their first-ever session for Rolling Stone. “I attended more Alice In Chains shows than I could count, which was amazing. At one point, guitarist Jerry Cantrell slept on my couch, and I even bought the guys food and clothes, and drove them around to various places.” She established friendships with many artists in town, which is a rarity between bands and their respective photographers. This only propelled her reputation as an innovative entertainment photographer throughout the region and led to long-lasting friendships with many musicians.

Mason-Blair also had the chance to meet Gene Simmons from Kiss in the early 90s and snagged a photo of him with Alice In Chains bassist Mike Starr while in LA. “He was super smart and understood the business well. He also had a record label and would help scout out bands and was invested in helping the music community. He was really nice to me,” she recalls.

For fans of alternative rock music, you can find Mason-Blair’s work in various albums, including “Lucy” by Candlebox (1995), “Room a Thousand Years Wide” by Soundgarden (1991) “Uncle Anesthesia” (1991) by The Screaming Trees, and “Music Bank” (1999) by Alice In Chains.

Mason-Blair even had the opportunity to photograph Radiohead’s second-ever photo session. You can view a photo from that session at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. For Pearl Jam’s very first concert at the Off Ramp Café in Seattle on Oct. 22, 1990, Mason-Blair took photos of the band, which are the only known photos for that particular show.

In 1993, Capitol Records hired Mason-Blair to photograph British pop icons Duran Duran for a band promo in Los Angeles, “This was during their comeback album, so they were quite humble. Since I was shooting so many grunge bands, I thought to photograph them in a service elevator to give them a gritty vibe. Simon Le Bon later told me it was the band’s favorite promo photo ever taken.”

When it pertains to hometown favorites Nirvana, Mason-Blair had the privilege of working with the band many times, creating some of the most iconic photos of her career. She shot the front cover of Nirvana’s 1991 “Live At The Paramount” concert DVD and vinyl, which is currently available to purchase. “I’m actually in the video; you can see me in the front taking photos. Normally, they don’t let photographers shoot during filming, but they made an exception for me.”

Recalling another memorable experience, one of Mason-Blair’s photos also made the Nirvana “In Utero” album from 1993, which just celebrated its 30th anniversary. “I had my seamstress make these Santa hats, and we were supposed to be doing this entire photoshoot with the band, but Dave Grohl didn’t feel too well. I came down to The Paramount anyway and we all just hung out, and the guys ended up putting the hats on, and I shot a photo. I framed two copies of the photo and gave the copies to Krist Novoselic, and asked him to give one to Kurt. Months later, I got a call from DGC Records asking me if they could use the photo for Nirvana’s “In Utero” album. I asked how they received it, and was told Kurt mailed it to them and was quoted as saying it was his ‘favorite photo,’ which later made the album,” she recalled. Mason-Blair even has a photo of her and Kurt from that night, “As rare as it is to have photos of Nirvana, it’s even more rare to be in one,” she adds.

Through the years, although finding considerable success and working with some of music’s biggest rock stars, Mason-Blair battled through challenges as a woman in the male-dominated entertainment industry. “After a while, I just said, ‘I’m done.’ Pretty much before the bands were famous, I got some gigs, but I didn’t get very many after they took off because it’s the old boys club, and I got tired of that. For me, integrity and my word is number one, and I hope I’m known for that. I treat everyone fairly, and I would rather have my self-built career (even if it’s less) than dishonest advantages from these men,” she said. “Frustrated, I sat down from the injustice I encountered, but continued as a working photographer in the wedding industry.”

During this time, Mason-Blair got married and had children. It wasn’t until 2016 that she took out her archives and began going through her past work. “They were just sitting in my file cabinet the whole time,” she said. “I then reached out to a gallery and they premiered my show, titled ‘The Flannel Years’ with 33 photos. Most photos had never been seen, as they were previously unreleased. My thing is, leave it to the universe to change the climate of the world in order to make room for me. I’m not even having a comeback; I’m just having my moment. Do I wish I would have shot the whole 20 years that I sat down? Yes, but all those gates were guarded by men who wanted something in return.”

Re-defining her career path in recent years, Mason-Blair has re-emerged with her historic photos from the music industry and has seen much success and interest from fans all over the world. She now has a website where you can purchase merch and memorabilia. You can also find her self-published book, “The Flannel Years” (also available on Amazon), which offers fans a glimpse into this special time in music history and features some of her best work on the local Seattle Grunge scene. Her merchandise can also be found at Easy Street Records in West Seattle and Sup Pop Records, among others.

Currently, Mason-Blair is offering Retro Photo Sessions, something she recently started in 2023. The sessions honor her iconic photos of Kurt Cobain from 1993, where the rocker is wearing white sunglasses. “The Retro Sessions are a recreation of Kurt Cobain. The glasses are included in the session, and you get the original Kurt Cobain photo matted beside the one I replicated with you. Someone even brought their dog in to get his photo taken,” she explained. So far, The Retro Sessions have been highly popular with fans and locals, and offer a way to connect to the legendary frontman.

The Retro Sessions also make an amazing gift! To book a Retro Photo Session, contact Karen Mason-Blair on her website here.

In 2022, Mason-Blair was notably featured on the popular hit show “Pawn Stars,” where she displayed some of her Seattle Grunge memorabilia. Gibson Guitar also made a documentary, titled “Through The Lens: Karen Mason Blair (Featuring Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Alice In Chains & More)” which can be found on YouTube.

Reflecting on her personal and professional experiences, Mason-Blair feels gratitude while acknowledging the hurdles she endured along the way, “I totally love being a photographer and making art with my friends. There’s no greater joy in my life! My road to success has been paved with many tears. Tears of joy and tears of sadness, but I just keep going.”

Follow Karen Mason-Blair on Instagram here.

Jenny Castro is a freelance writer for Seattle Refined. Follow more of her adventures here.

Zibby’s Bookshop Presents Photographer Piper Ferguson: A Journey into ‘INDIE, SEEN!’

Zibby’s Bookshop Presents Photographer Piper Ferguson: A Journey into ‘INDIE, SEEN!’

Join the Celebration of Alternative Rock Icons – Exclusive Author Event

By Dolores Quintana

Zibby’s Bookshop, located at 1113 Montana Ave, will host an author event and discussion with photographer Piper Ferguson on Wednesday, January 17, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. as she celebrates the release of “INDIE, SEEN!” her book of photographs that feature many of the greatest musicians of the Alternative Rock scene starting in the late 1990s. Piper will engage in a conversation with music journalist Lily Moayeri during the event about her photographic career and many other interesting topics related to her work. You can reserve your space here

About the Book:

“Indie, Seen” takes readers on a timely journey through the alternative music scene, as captured by music photographer Piper Ferguson. Starting her career in the late 1990s, Piper emerged as a woman photographer in a once male-dominated field. Renowned for conveying dynamic and intimate stories through her lens, Piper’s work yields beautiful, enthralling, and genuinely original photographs. 

The book curates Piper’s most personal and exclusive works into one volume, spanning from her initial portrait sessions with artists like Joe Strummer and Richard Ashcroft to festival performances, behind-the-scenes photoshoots, editorial portrait sessions, and lively nights out. The collection features vibrant images of iconic indie rock performers such as Interpol, The Strokes, Coldplay, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs. With over 200 images, “Indie, Seen” is a must-have for every rock and music history enthusiast, offering a chance to indulge in and explore the moments behind the music. Piper was there, and now you can be too.

“Piper’s work is about the moments. The moments happen, and she can make a moment, and no matter where or what’s happening, she always manages to fit in like one of the band. That’s uncommon, and one of the reasons why you see what you see in the pictures.“–Johnny Marr, in his introduction to Indie, Seen. 

About the Author:

Piper Ferguson is a music, fashion, and entertainment photographer and director with decades of experience shooting some of the greatest entertainers. Her work captures the adventure and excitement found in life through a creative, rock-and-roll lens. Currently based in Los Angeles, California.

Piper originally came to Los Angeles in 1995 to work in the film industry, and in 2020, she and her husband, Will Dearborn, formed the production company Noonday Underground to produce and direct their own projects. They are currently developing two narrative feature films, and Piper is also working on a documentary passion project that looks at the early indie through the lens of memoir and personal discovery.

Zibby’s Bookshop Presents Photographer Piper Ferguson: A Journey into ‘INDIE, SEEN!’

Zibby’s Bookshop Presents Photographer Piper Ferguson: A Journey into ‘INDIE, SEEN!’

Join the Celebration of Alternative Rock Icons – Exclusive Author Event

By Dolores Quintana

Zibby’s Bookshop, located at 1113 Montana Ave, will host an author event and discussion with photographer Piper Ferguson on Wednesday, January 17, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. as she celebrates the release of “INDIE, SEEN!” her book of photographs that feature many of the greatest musicians of the Alternative Rock scene starting in the late 1990s. Piper will engage in a conversation with music journalist Lily Moayeri during the event about her photographic career and many other interesting topics related to her work. You can reserve your space here

About the Book:

“Indie, Seen” takes readers on a timely journey through the alternative music scene, as captured by music photographer Piper Ferguson. Starting her career in the late 1990s, Piper emerged as a woman photographer in a once male-dominated field. Renowned for conveying dynamic and intimate stories through her lens, Piper’s work yields beautiful, enthralling, and genuinely original photographs. 

The book curates Piper’s most personal and exclusive works into one volume, spanning from her initial portrait sessions with artists like Joe Strummer and Richard Ashcroft to festival performances, behind-the-scenes photoshoots, editorial portrait sessions, and lively nights out. The collection features vibrant images of iconic indie rock performers such as Interpol, The Strokes, Coldplay, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs. With over 200 images, “Indie, Seen” is a must-have for every rock and music history enthusiast, offering a chance to indulge in and explore the moments behind the music. Piper was there, and now you can be too.

“Piper’s work is about the moments. The moments happen, and she can make a moment, and no matter where or what’s happening, she always manages to fit in like one of the band. That’s uncommon, and one of the reasons why you see what you see in the pictures.“–Johnny Marr, in his introduction to Indie, Seen. 

About the Author:

Piper Ferguson is a music, fashion, and entertainment photographer and director with decades of experience shooting some of the greatest entertainers. Her work captures the adventure and excitement found in life through a creative, rock-and-roll lens. Currently based in Los Angeles, California.

Piper originally came to Los Angeles in 1995 to work in the film industry, and in 2020, she and her husband, Will Dearborn, formed the production company Noonday Underground to produce and direct their own projects. They are currently developing two narrative feature films, and Piper is also working on a documentary passion project that looks at the early indie through the lens of memoir and personal discovery.

Shy sea lion and orangutan operation lead Nature Photo Contest wins

Shy sea lion and orangutan operation lead Nature Photo Contest wins

A brand new photography competition has released its first ever batch of winners and finalists, and there are some truly stunning images in the mix. A portrait of a playful sea lion has taken the top gong in the inaugural Nature Photography Contest, which showcases animals, plants, landscapes and human impact on the environment.

The Nature Photography Contest was started in 2023 by an international team of nature photographers, aiming to highlight the beauty of our planet – and what we stand to lose. Entrants submit their images to 10 categories: Wildlife, Birds and Plant Life focus on the organisms we share Earth with. Landscapes capture large-scale scenery, while Macrophotography zooms in on the tiny. Underwater and Night World showcase nature through different lenses. Environmental Impact and Sharing the Planet highlight how humans co-exist with nature, both good and bad. And Funny Nature lightens the mood a bit with those once-in-a-lifetime snaps.

“Sea Lion in Los Islotes” by Glenn Ostle. The overall Photography of the Year winner for the Nature Photography Contest 2023

Glenn Ostle

Along with the categories, submissions have the chance for special recognition. The Photography of the Year Award goes to a single shot from any category that stands above the rest, while the Photographer of the Year is awarded to an exceptional person behind the camera, based on their entire submitted body of work.

The contest’s first-ever Photography of the Year Award went to Glenn Ostle for his image, Sea Lion in Los Islotes. Snapped in the waters near LaPaz, Mexico, the photo shows a sea lion looking coyly over its shoulder at the camera, before presumably plunging through the schools of fish in the background.

“Saving Orangutans 01” by Alain Schroeder, winner of the Sharing the Planet category in the Nature Photography Contest 2023

Alain Schroeder

The inaugural Photographer of the Year, meanwhile, was awarded to Belgian photojournalist Alain Schroeder. His work includes a sea turtle captured in the Maldives and a series on orangutans in Indonesia, one photo of which also won the Sharing the Planet category.

Browse through the other winners and a selection of finalists in our gallery, and for the full slate, check out the competition’s website.

Source: Nature Photography Contest

Your phone has no photographs

Your phone has no photographs

As we promenaded down Brunswick Street we were greeted by a young man with a camera on a tripod with a lens attached to a leather bellows. I attempted conversation.

“My father did this on Brighton beach in England 70 years ago, selling photos to tourists.”

His gracious affirmation suggested a modest understanding of language. He seemed to be Japanese.

He was a tourist selling photographs to the locals.

We walked away with a Polaroid. My intimate companion was bemused by the realisation that this, the only image in existence, not a hard copy but the original and only, could not be “shared”.

Red 1 close cropped 1meg copyRed 1 close cropped 1meg copy
Close focus / Credit: Redmond Symons

Photograph, coined in 1839 by Herschel is, from the Greek, light (phos) and drawing (graphe).

Seventy years ago a camera, film and a photograph was a technical exercise.

Now any every fool can do is doing this. Yes, space junk litters in orbit threatening to fall to Earth. What about server junk? The “cloud” makes it sound distant and nonintrusive but it’s just a warehoused computer somewhere doing nothing.

The human eye has about 500 megapixels. Your phone has 10 or 20 megapixels. 

Will those images of yesterday’s meal perish before you do?

When you emerge from a cave into daylight, you briefly shield your eyes and wait for them to adjust. A powerful projector in a cinema can burn a hole in a frame if the spinning reel stops and the frame lingers long enough. Your retina, like film, can be damaged. 

You concentrate your vision on whatever takes your interest, your prey. Meanwhile, your peripheral vision has a limited view of a much wider field of other competing predators. You blink to wipe and refresh your eyes. In the case of a camera you wipe with a soft cloth. With a phone, the lens is housed behind a scratch proof transparent plate.

The human eye has about 500 megapixels. Your phone has 10 or 20 megapixels. 

As you adapt to the bright light, your iris closes to limit the intensity of the light entering your eye. On a camera, you close the iris in order to get this desired and chosen effect. The phone has no iris, just a software workaround. It has a fixed aperture of around 2.0.

Counter-intuitively, the value associated with aperture, the f/ stop, is small (2.0) for a wide aperture and big (20) for a narrow aperture.

F/ stop = (focal length)/(diameter of aperture)

Once upon a time film was expensive, limited to a roll of 12, 24 or even 36 shots and you never knew what you had until a week later when the prints arrived.

A side effect of the aperture of the iris is depth of field. When the iris of a camera is wide there is shallower depth of field. This means that something in the middle distance is focussed and those objects closer and further away will be out of focus. When the iris is narrow and constricting there is greater depth of field. This means that things both near and far are in focus.

Bokeh, a Japanese word, signifies a pleasing out of focus effect given to less important objects.

The human eye barely notices soft focus as it darts around the observable world, constantly refocussing. A phone endeavours to keep everything in focus all the time. Interestingly, the newer phones, once again using “clever depth-effect software”, can replicate the effect of bokeh by limiting focus to a designated foreground and ungrudgingly softening the background.

With a camera, by adjusting the iris, you can be quite exacting about how broad or shallow the depth of field, the sharply focussed range, can be.

This mid cropped 1meg copyThis mid cropped 1meg copy
Mid focus / Credit: Redmond Symons

Having closed the iris to a small aperture there is the issue of insufficiency of light. Returning to the cave, the iris of the human eye simply widens to admit more light. Similarly, the phone does some arithmetic – the less fancy name for an algorithm – and adjusts.

A camera will need adjustment to the duration and sensitivity of exposure.

Remember those 19th century photos of families, stiff and unsmiling, presenting in their best clothes to capture a moment?

That camera, itself anchored on a tripod, needed a long exposure of a second or more to sufficiently imprint the film. The family was required to stay still.

A modern camera can deploy faster shutter speeds and faster film. Film speed, the rapidity with which an imprint is made, was typically around 200~400 ISO when Kodak, Agfa, Fuji and Ilford were, in their heyday, making the film stock. Digital cameras can nowadays be greater than 10,000 ISO.

I had occasion to visit the the Valley of the Kings alongside the Nile some years ago. The use of flash photography in underground tombs was forbidden. Even better than fast film, a digital camera’s sensitivity to light can be cranked up so as to function in what the human eye perceives as complete darkness.

Bokeh, a Japanese word, signifies a pleasing out of focus effect given to less important objects.

If you’re in the area and have a phone, maybe buy a postcard and take a shot of that. The guy who shot the postcard probably had a digital camera.

Simply put, a $200 camera in a $2000 handheld computer/phone may well serve your needs. You don’t need to trouble your pretty little head. A $2000 camera will enable you to make educated choices rather than just palming the problem off to some software engineer.

The human eye and the phone cannot zoom. When you zoom the image from a phone, you simply “zoom in” and stretch the image; the pointillist pixels get bigger. Or you can get a clunky zoom lens attachment to dangle off and belabour your phone. 

A camera lens can truly zoom.

Finally, film is not for the faint hearted.

Once upon a time film was expensive, limited to a roll of 12, 24 or even 36 shots and you never knew what you had until a week later when the prints arrived. You had an economic imperative and a limited opportunity to get it right.

A photographer anticipated the “decisive moment” before pressing the button.

Henri Cartier-Bresson framed the shot perfectly in recognition of the existing world and then waited for something to happen in the frame.

Far cropped 1meg copyFar cropped 1meg copy
Long focus / Credit: Redmond Symons

image

Xiaomi 14 Ultra Photography Kit Doubles As A Power Bank – 3C Certified

Xiaomi 14 Ultra Photography Kit Doubles As A Power Bank – 3C Certified

Xiaomi 14 Ultra Photography Kit 3C Certification

In its relentless pursuit of imaging excellence, Xiaomi has once again upped the ante with the imminent release of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, slated for March. Building on the success of its predecessor, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, the tech giant has not only fine-tuned the camera system but also introduced a groundbreaking Photography Kit that seamlessly combines creativity, portability, and functionality.

The upcoming Xiaomi 14 Ultra Photography Kit, recently granted 3C certification, promises more than just enhancing photographic capabilities. With the model number 2402CPS69C, the kit is aptly described as a “Professional Photography Handle with a mobile power supply.” This dual-purpose feature is set to transform the way users engage with their photography gear.

imageXiaomi 14 Ultra Photography Kit 3C Certification with model number 2402CPS69C
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Xiaomi 14 Ultra Photography Kit 3C Certification

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Xiaomi 14 Ultra Photography Kit 3C Certification

Unlike its predecessor’s photography kit, which primarily focused on enhancing the shooting experience, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s Photography Kit takes versatility to a new level. The innovative inclusion of a portable power bank ensures that users can capture breathtaking moments without worrying about running out of battery life. This dual functionality is a testament to Xiaomi’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions for the modern smartphone photographer.

Looking back at the Xiaomi 13 Ultra’s photography kit, it featured a wireless camera handle equipped with a two-stage shutter button and zoom function. Additionally, the kit boasted cutting-edge technology, including a nano-skin protective case, a 67mm adapter ring, lens cap composition, and more. Xiaomi’s dedication to refining and expanding these capabilities signals a continued emphasis on user experience and creative freedom.

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OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G – A stylish companion enhancing photography experience

OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G – A stylish companion enhancing photography experience
Published on Jan 17, 2024 10:02 AM IST

OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G has been created to not only look elegant but also feel comfortable and functional, making it a must-have tool for photography enthusiasts.

OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G
OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G

ByHT Brand Studio

For those eager to seize life’s fleeting moments, the newly-launched OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G is not just a stylish companion but a tool made for photography enthusiasts. With its slender silhouette and camera technology innovations, Reno11 Pro 5G is anticipated to be a masterpiece, redefining the experience of mobile photography.

Incorporating a next-generation interface, the Reno11 Pro 5G transforms into a creative studio that you can carry in your pocket. To elevate the photography experience even further, the Reno11 Pro 5G is equipped with OPPO’s proprietary HyperTone Imaging Engine that processes uncompressed photos in the RAW domain, resulting in images that gleam with vibrant colours and intricate details.

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Apart from this the Reno11 series proves OPPO’s expertise in proprietary technologies, BHE, SUPERVOOCTM, and ColorOS, which are the foundations for hardware innovation.

The smoothly textured, 3D curved glass back, finished with a satin touch, provides a smudge-free appearance.
The smoothly textured, 3D curved glass back, finished with a satin touch, provides a smudge-free appearance.

Designed for Comfort and Style

Without compromising on design, OPPO has crafted Reno11 Pro 5G to feel exceptionally comfortable while holding. The smoothly textured, 3D curved glass back, finished with a satin touch, provides a smudge-free appearance. The contoured design, weighing 181g, showcases OPPO’s commitment to a design that perfectly fits in your hand.

Featuring a precision-curved front and back, and a featherweight body measuring only 7.59mm thin in Rock Grey and 7.66mm thin in Pearl White, Reno11 Pro 5G integrates the design with an ergonomic grip and a hard-to-miss style. Whether in Rock Grey or Pearl White, the triple-layered glass design and innovative OPPO Glow technology add a textured, organic look. In Pearl White, the introduction of the Shimmering Pearl design creates a signature look with 3.6 million tiny reflective surfaces. In Rock Grey, the layers of bright and soft silver-grey achieved through OPPO Glow technology exude a classical and subdued style.

Not to forget the placement of the Sunshine Ring camera system, framed by an eye-catching track, showcases an attention to detail that sets the Reno11 Pro 5G apart. The choice of materials, finishes, and innovative technologies like the triple-layered glass design and OPPO Glow technology further elevate the device’s aesthetics.

The Reno11 Pro's comprehensive camera system is designed to cater to a wide range of photographic needs.
The Reno11 Pro’s comprehensive camera system is designed to cater to a wide range of photographic needs.

Enhancing Smartphone Photography

Reno11 Pro 5G features OPPO’s debutant Ultra-Clear Portrait Camera System with Portrait Expert Engine, which transforms ordinary portraits into expressive works of art. Whatever the lighting may be, the smartphone’s powerful camera system will set the scene for capturing cinematic photos and videos.

The 50MP main camera powered by a Sony IMX890 sensor has an f/1.8 aperture lens, and optical image stabilization (OIS), allowing the smartphone to capture detail-rich photos. The 32MP telephoto camera with a Sony IMX709 sensor, has 2x optical zoom capability and a 47mm focal length, providing a classic point of view for portraits. Coupled with the new flagship algorithm and advanced in-sensor zoom technology, the Reno11 Pro 5G delivers quality zoom capabilities, capturing sharp shots up to 5x.

Complementing these features is the 8MP ultra-wide camera, housing a Sony IMX355 sensor with an f/2.2 aperture lens. This camera has a 112-degree field of view and a 16mm focal length, allowing users to capture scenes with clarity and precision. The Reno11 Pro’s comprehensive camera system is designed to cater to a wide range of photographic needs.

OPPO’s Flagship HyperTone Imaging Engine

The flagship algorithm of OPPO, the HyperTone Imaging Engine, was initially introduced with the Find X6 Pro and Find N3 models and has undergone further refinement for Reno11 Pro 5G. This colour calculation technology represents innovation in computational photography.

Through the amalgamation of multiple uncompressed images in the RAW domain and the application of AI-powered Denoise and Demosaic processing, the HyperTone Imaging Engine excels at elevating image clarity, dynamic range, and colour richness. The AI-powered Denoise and Demosaic algorithms specifically target portrait clarity. The engine refines facial details and optimises the overall portrait, resulting in stunning and clear images, regardless of the lighting conditions.

Collaborating with professional portrait photographers worldwide, OPPO has fine-tuned the portrait shooting experience.
Collaborating with professional portrait photographers worldwide, OPPO has fine-tuned the portrait shooting experience.

Preserving Natural Beauty

Featuring a Pro-Grade Portrait Mode, Portrait Expert Engine, and AI Portrait Retouching, this smartphone transforms every moment into a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. Reno11 Pro 5G’s Pro-Grade Portrait Mode delivers undistorted 2x portraits with natural backgrounds, allowing adjustable apertures for diverse effects and capturing natural skin tones in various scenarios.

The Portrait Expert Engine incorporates Facial Recognition and Subject/Scene Separation, ensuring diverse faces and various objects are naturally optimised. Reno11 Pro 5G also includes Skin Color and Facial Feature Protection, preserving unique characteristics like moles or birthmarks while enhancing overall aesthetics.

Collaborating with professional portrait photographers worldwide, OPPO has fine-tuned the portrait shooting experience. Whether it’s achieving DSLR-like bokeh, a natural 2x portrait look, accurate mapping of layers, or flattering representation of skin tones, Reno11 Pro 5G ensures exceptional image quality.

Selfie Camera Innovations

Taking self-portraits to a whole new level, Reno11 Pro 5G is equipped with a 32MP front camera featuring a Sony IMX709 sensor and autofocus capabilities. The addition of AI Portrait Retouching adds a touch of sophistication, refining the overall portrait for a polished and natural look that’s uniquely yours.

With meticulous optimisations, the Reno11 Pro 5G refines key facial elements such as lips and eyes, ensuring that every selfie is a genuine celebration of your authentic self. From precise shadowing to an accurate representation of lipstick shades and a refined facial structure, the Reno11 Pro 5G brings out the best in self-portraits with just a click.

Reno11 Pro 5G opens the door to front-camera videography, allowing users to experience the magic of ultra-steady technology combined with ultra-clear resolution. The Reno11 Pro 5G excels in capturing crisp 4K video at up to 30fps, making it a valuable asset for shooting cinematic footage or embarking on vlogging adventures.

The 10-bit display showcases over 1 billion colours.
The 10-bit display showcases over 1 billion colours.

Immersive Display

The Reno11 Pro 5G’s display offers an immersive visual experience. The large 2412 x 1080, 6.7” 3D curved AMOLED screen boasts an almost borderless look, framed by a slim 1.57mm bezel on either side. The silky, 120Hz dynamic refresh rate keeps visuals flowing smoothly, enhancing the streaming, gaming, or app-swiping experience.

The 10-bit display showcases over 1 billion colours, ensuring smoother gradients and richer visuals. The HDR10+ certification delivers an atmospheric and captivating picture with a brightness of up to 950 nits. Whether you’re watching your favorite shows or movies, the Reno11 Pro 5G brings them to life with detail, depth, and dynamic tones.

Seamless Software Experience

Running on OPPO’s ColorOS 14, Reno11 Pro 5G ensures a delightful user experience. The File Dock feature allows users to save images, text, or files for quick drag-and-drop access across apps. Smart Touch enables the extraction of content from screenshots with a three-finger swipe, enhancing usability.

Reno11 Pro 5G a companion that understands and adapts to your needs.
Reno11 Pro 5G a companion that understands and adapts to your needs.

Smart Image Matting simplifies foreground object cutting, turning it into a transparent PNG for versatile use. The Trinity Engine ensures enhanced smoothness and stability, optimising ROM, RAM, and CPU vitalisation for a seamless user experience. ColorOS 14 adds beauty, security, productivity, reliability, and longevity to the user experience, making the Reno11 Pro 5G a companion that understands and adapts to your needs.

The Reno11 Pro 5G boasts the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chipset, making it 80 per cent faster than past-generation devices.
The Reno11 Pro 5G boasts the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chipset, making it 80 per cent faster than past-generation devices.

Top-Tier Performance

The Reno11 Pro 5G boasts the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chipset, making it 80 per cent faster than past-generation devices. The advanced 4nm architecture allows for confident multitasking, crisp 4K video capture, and smooth gameplay. Coupled with AI network selection and a 360-degree surround antenna design LinkBoost, OPPO’s self-developed network optimisation engine ensures up to 73 per cent faster transmission power and 17 per cent stronger reception with minimum downtime.

The inclusion of an IR Remote app turns the Reno11 Pro 5G into a universal remote control for household electronics such as air conditioners, TVs, and streaming devices, adding practicality to its impressive feature set. With the app, you get control of your household tech at your fingertips.

OPPO's 80W SUPERVOOCTM Flash Charging charges the device up to 48 per cent in just 10 minutes.
OPPO’s 80W SUPERVOOCTM Flash Charging charges the device up to 48 per cent in just 10 minutes.

All-Day Battery and Super-Fast Charging

Reno11 Pro 5G’s 4600mAh battery is designed to stop only when you do. The Battery Health Engine doubles the battery lifespan, ensuring four years of reliable performance. The real showstopper, however, is OPPO’s 80W SUPERVOOCTM Flash Charging, which charges the device up to 24 per cent in just 5 minutes and reaches 100 per cent in an impressive 28 minutes. So don’t stop what you love doing – creating, sharing, messaging, and discovering – as Reno11 Pro 5G keeps you going from morning to night.

Whether in Rock Grey or Pearl White, the triple-layered glass design and innovative OPPO Glow technology add a textured, organic look to the device.
Whether in Rock Grey or Pearl White, the triple-layered glass design and innovative OPPO Glow technology add a textured, organic look to the device.

Verdict

OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G stands out as a masterpiece seamlessly blending design with refined camera technology. Coupled with fast-charging capabilities this device is designed to stop only when you do. OPPO’s proprietary HyperTone Imaging Engine elevates the nuances of photos offering an impressive visual experience. The MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chipset ensures great performance, delivering 80 per cent faster speeds and seamless multitasking compared to previous generations. With ColorOS 14 enhancing usability and functionality, Reno11 Pro 5G adapts to the users’ needs effortlessly.

In essence, OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G is a comprehensive tool tailored for design and photography enthusiasts. Its ability to seamlessly blend style with substance positions Reno11 Pro 5G as a must-have device in your pocket. Click here to make the OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G yours and begin your creative journey.

The OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G is priced at INR 39,999 and will be available from 18th January 2024.
The OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G is priced at INR 39,999 and will be available from 18th January 2024.

The OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G is priced at INR 39,999 and will go on sale starting 18th January 2024. It will be available across Flipkart, OPPO e-Store and mainline retail outlets. Here are some of the amazing offers that you can avail on the first sale of OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G.

• Customers can enjoy a cashback of up to INR 4,000 on Flipkart, OPPO e-Store, and mainline retailers with leading bank cards like SBI Cards, ICICI Bank, One Card, IDFC First Bank and Bank of Baroda credit cards, coupled with no-cost EMI for up to 9 months

• Customers will have the option to decide on EMI instalment and tenure at their convenience.

• Additionally, customers can enjoy the benefit of Zero Down Payment and low-down payment schemes from leading financiers like Bajaj Finserv, TVS Credit, Home Credit, HDB Financial Services and IDFC First Bank.

• Loyal OPPO customers can avail of an Exchange + Loyalty Bonus of up to INR 4,000 online and offline.

• Customers can opt to pay through UPI and avail an instant 7.5% cashback on the purchase of Reno11 Pro 5G.

• Buy the Reno11 Pro 5G and get OPPO Enco Air2 Pro at just INR 2,999.

Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of the brand by HT Brand Studio.

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Photographs for Peace: 31 leading female photographers unite for humanitarian impact

Photographs for Peace: 31 leading female photographers unite for humanitarian impact

Agender, a collective of female and non-binary photographers, is set to launch Photographs for Peace, an affordable art charity print campaign featuring the donated works of 31 artists. 

All the archival property, open edition prints (8×10 or 8×12 inches) are priced at $70+ shipping.

The fundraiser will run for two weeks from 19 January until 2 February 2024.

Responding to the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, largely impacting women and children, Photographs for Peace aims to raise funds for the emergency efforts of Médecins Sans Frontières and Save the Children; independent, neutral, and impartial organisations dedicated to saving lives and providing essential support for children and their caregivers.

The artists – both prominent and emerging – span the worlds of fine art, travel, and documentary photography. Normally prints from these photographers would normally be priced from $200 to $7,000. Many have exhibited at The Museum of Contemporary Art and the National Portrait Gallery; or are established photojournalists and commercial photographers whose personal work is rarely, if ever available to the public for purchase. Long-time admirers now have the opportunity to own an artwork for themselves at an accessible price of $70 + shipping.

Image: Penny Lane – Michaela Kalbari
Image: Penny Lane – Michaela Kalbari

The initiative, beyond fundraising, seeks to foster solidarity and shared responsibility in a time of overwhelming hopelessness and helplessness.

“We live in such a content heavy world, and it can feel tough to constantly produce image/content that is not helping or saving any lives,” says Emily May Gunawan, a participating artist.

“The war in Gaza is harrowing. Every day, people are putting their lives on the line to save others. I hope that our work as photographers and artists can contribute, even in some small way, to two organisations that are working tirelessly on the front lines.” says photographer Alex Vaughan.

Image: Tanja Bruckner – Highway
Image: Tanja Bruckner – Highway

“I feel completely helpless,” says photographer Amy Woodward. She goes on to add “…this feels like a small gesture of solidarity and support as I sit here in safety and comfort, witnessing the most abhorrent and brutal attacks on a population comprised of 50% children and babies. As a mother, I cannot and will not stand by and watch these horrors unfold in silence…”

“I am honoured to be amongst so many talented female artists aligning for a very important cause.” says photographer Yasmin Mund.

Lucent Imaging, a carbon neutral fine art printing and digital imaging consultancy, has joined Agender as the official charity print partner.

Scheduled for mid-January – as the Israel-Hamas war edges towards 100 days – the campaign offers a moment of reflection amidst the post-December consumerist rush, emphasising the enduring impact of mindful choices.

Image: Yasmin Suteja – Basjia
Image: Yasmin Suteja – Basjia

The charities have offered these words.

“Currently, no child in Gaza is safe from violence. Children in the region are enduring hunger, lack of shelter and limited access to medical assistance.” says Hannah Jennings, Community Fundraising Coordinator at Save the Children. “Save the Children is so appreciative to receive the support of Agender. Thanks to the support of the community, we can continue our work fighting for a world where every child can thrive.”

“MSF is so grateful for the generosity shown by this collective of Australian photographers,” says Teneale Cameron, Senior Fundraising Manager at Médecins Sans Frontières Australia. “This comes at a time where the medical humanitarian situation in Gaza is beyond catastrophic. We continue to call for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further civilian deaths and to allow aid workers unrestricted access to provide lifesaving medical care to the two million Gazans who desperately need it today.”

Photographer Stephanie Pedersen captures the collective sentiment of all involved in the campaign: “Sending heartfelt prayers to those in Gaza.”

Photographs for Peace launches on 19 January 2024. Every dollar raised above basic print costs and payment processing fees is donated directly to the charities.

Supporters can sign up for launch and preview the artworks here:

Participating Photographers:

Alex Vaughan, Amy Woodward, Ana Suntay-Tañedo, Bec Lorrimer, Britt Murphy, Cara O’Dowd, Cybele Malinowski, Elise Hassey, Emily May, Grace Costa, Lilli Waters, Lisa Maree Williams, Liz Ham, Lucy Alcorn, Michele Aboud, Ming Nomchong, Natalie Finney, Penny Lane, Petrina Tinslay, Sally Ann, Sian Fay, Sim Kaur, Stef King, Stephanie Cammarano, Stephanie Pedersen, Stephanie Simcox, Tanja Bruckner, Tess Lehman, Tracey Nearmy, Yasmin Mund and Yasmin Suteja.