Photography Guides & Field Notes
Photography Guides & Field Notes brings together practical, experience-led writing drawn from time spent photographing landscapes, wildlife, and working with film.
Rather than quick tips or gear-driven advice, these guides focus on real situations in the field — from choosing locations and understanding light, to slowing down your approach and working with intention. Many posts are shaped by long walks, repeated visits, and quiet observation, offering guidance rooted in practice rather than theory.
This section is intended for photographers who value process, patience, and learning through doing — whether you’re refining your craft, planning a shoot, or simply looking for a calmer way to engage with photography.
Fixing a Bronica ETRSi Light Leak: A Simple Guide
Owning a vintage medium format camera is a joy, but every now and then, the quirks of age can present a challenge. Recently, my Bronica ETRSi began to show signs of a problem: a light leak that had started ruining my film rolls. What initially seemed like a minor annoyance grew into an issue I couldn’t ignore. Here’s how I identified my Bronica ETRSi Light Leak problem, tackled it, and successfully replaced the light seals on the medium format film holder—all from the comfort of home. How It All Began: The Mystery of the Light Streaks A few rolls ago, I noticed strange streaks of light on my developed negatives.…
Film vs Digital: My Photography Journey Through Two Mediums
As a photographer, I often find myself caught between two worlds—one grounded in the past, with the tactile and intentional experience of shooting on film, and the other looking forward, embracing the speed and versatility of digital photography. For me, both mediums have been integral to my growth as an artist, shaping not just how I take pictures, but how I see the world, film vs digital (or is it Digital Vs Film?). Film Photography vs Digital In this film v digital post, I want to share my personal journey with both film and digital photography. Each has its own charm, strengths, and challenges, and they both continue to play…
Camera History Timeline from Early 1800s to the Digital Age
Camera History Each innovation not only made photography more accessible and versatile but also changed the way we capture and perceive the world around us. This camera timeline highlights the key developments in camera technology, showcasing how photography has evolved into a global medium that influences culture, communication, and art. Early 1800s Camera History – The Birth of Photography Mid to Late 1800s – Development of Photographic Processes Late 1800s to Early 1900s – Emergence of Roll Film 1920s to 1940s – Refinements and Popularisation 1950s to 1970s – SLR and Colour Photography 1980s to 1990s – Digital Photography Emergence 2000s – The Digital Revolution 2010s – Rise of Mirrorless…
A Personal Glimpse into Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024
This year, the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024 was an unforgettable experience. The warm yet overcast day created a perfect backdrop for capturing the event’s essence. Armed with my trusty Canon EOS 5DS R, I set out with my favorite Canon L Series 24-70mm lens, but I mostly relied on my daughter’s Canon L Series 70-200mm lens for the action-packed shots. Here’s a personal glimpse into the day’s highlights. Goodwood Festival of Speed Highlights of the Day Final Thoughts The Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024 was an incredible day filled with high-octane action, beautiful cars, and unforgettable moments. Using my Canon EOS 5DS R with both the 24-70mm and 70-200mm…
A DIY Repair for my Bronica Cable Release Woes on the ETRSi
As photographers, we often find ourselves navigating through the challenges of capturing the perfect shot, and sometimes, unexpected obstacles can emerge. In this blog post, I’ll share a recent experience that left me scratching my head: my Bronica cable release malfunction. Join me on a journey of discovery as I troubleshooted and resolve an issue that seemed to have no precedent on the vast landscape of the internet. NOTE: The following Cable Release ‘Fix’ is worth considering for other makes of camera that use a mechanical cable release system. The Cable Release was found to be the root cause for the issue and not the camera. See below for images…
Preserving the Past: A Journey into Film Slide Scanning
Film Slide Scanning at Home In embarking on the journey of scanning my cherished film slides[] from the 1980s and 1990s, I found myself immersed in a home scanning project that transcended mere digitisation or slides to digital. My task was not just about converting some old images; it was a poignant exploration of nostalgia and a commitment to preserving the essence of bygone eras. My project was born out of a profound appreciation for the tangible memories that I’d captured on a variety of Kodachrome and Fuji film slides—pieces of my personal history frozen in time. And of course, finding a digital slide scanning service or scanner to scan…
Unlock Your Success: Transform Your Brand with Powerful Portraits by Jason Reading Photography
As I envisioned the branding style photographs essential for my website, it was evident that Jason’s fervor for capturing genuine individual essence aligned seamlessly with my requirements. Beyond merely hiring a photographer, approaching Jason meant engaging with a creative collaborator capable of translating my brand vision into visually compelling storytelling. His dedication to photographing people, as evidenced by his mantra, “I’m a photographer of people; it’s my passion,” resonated with my goal of creating images that authentically represented my brand, Jason Reading Photography. Jason’s extensive experience and diverse portfolio, spanning various genres from portraiture to fantasy, assured me that his expertise would bring a unique touch to my branding visuals.…
The Art of Night Photography: Cologne’s Christmas Markets Night Shots
During my stay in the wonderful German town of Cologne, I was enchanted by the city’s magical Christmas Markets. These markets, with their colourful and playful displays, created a festive experience that was truly extraordinary. Amidst the bustling stalls adorned with twinkling lights, the air was filled with the joyful laughter of families and the enticing aroma of seasonal treats. The markets, a kaleidoscope of festive colours, added a dynamic and lively element to my night photography exploration. In the realm of composition, I found myself drawn to the balance of simplicity and the festive complexity of the markets. Each frame captured the whimsical charm of the market scenes, showcasing…
Why am I Still Using the Canon EOS 5DS R5: A Personal Reflection
Embarking on a photographic journey is akin to selecting a life companion, and for me, the unwavering choice has been the Canon EOS 5DS R. Throughout the span of several years, this camera has transcended its role as a mere tool, evolving into a true partner, a silent witness to the multitude of moments that have been immortalised in its lens. It has become more than a device capturing pixels; it’s a repository of memories and emotions. From the ethereal glow of a sunrise over a mountain range to the candid expressions of loved ones during significant milestones, the Canon EOS 5DS R has been an integral part of my…
Mastering The Best Settings for Low Light Photography
As the winter season approaches, I find myself drawn to the enchanting world of low light photography. Hi, I’m Steve, and I’m excited to share my insights on navigating the captivating challenges and embracing the wonderful opportunities that the best settings for low light photography conditions present for photographers. Winter brings a unique ambiance, with its early sunsets and cozy indoor festivities. It’s during this time, especially around Christmas, that the allure of capturing moments in subtle lighting becomes irresistible. In this article, I aim to provide a personal perspective on the art of low light photography, offering a guide tailored not just for enthusiasts but for anyone eager to…
Emotional Photography – 5 Powerful Ways to Evoke Emotions Through Your Photography
In the digital age, my journey through photography is not just a hobby or an art form; it’s a powerful tool that speaks to the deepest corners of my emotions, my emotional photography. Through the lens of my camera, I capture moments, faces, and landscapes that tell my personal stories, often without words. But have you ever wondered about the psychology behind these captivating images? How do my photographs manage to create emotional photography that tells a story, to touch my heart, evoke powerful emotions, and sometimes even leave me teary-eyed? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of “Photography and Psychology: Understanding the Emotions Behind Your…
Your 7-Day Free Mindfulness Photography Plan: Discovering Peace in a Hectic World
In today’s fast-paced, digitally-driven world, the art of mindful living has never been more relevant and crucial. We live in an era where distractions are abundant, stress levels are high, and the pace of life seems unrelenting. It’s easy to become overwhelmed, disconnected from the present moment, and caught up in the chaos of our daily routines. In the midst of this, the concept of a mindfulness, which has ancient roots in various contemplative traditions, is gaining widespread recognition as a valuable tool for regaining a sense of balance and peace in our lives. This is why I’ve created this Mindfulness Photography Plan. But what does it really mean to…
Phone Photography at Christmas: 5 Tips and 5 Device Recommendations
Introduction to Phone Photography at Christmas In the digital age, mobile phone photography at Christmas has become one of the most popular ways to capture precious moments, including during the holiday season, such as Christmas. In this article, we will discuss how you can enhance your mobile phone photography skills during the holiday season. Additionally, we will recommend some types of phones that are suitable for capturing incredible Christmas moments. Phone Comparison Table Phone Type Camera Features Low-Light Capabilities Special Modes Comments Google Pixel Exceptional camera quality – Night Sight for low-light photography – Astrophotography mode Excellent for capturing the warm and cozy Christmas atmosphere Astrophotography mode for stunning night…
Mindful Photography: Using Photography for Mental Health and Wellbeing
Mindful photography is about slowing down, being present, and using photography as a tool for mental wellbeing rather than just capturing images. In a world where the daily grind can often consume us, it’s essential to find moments of solace and rejuvenation. So, what is Mindful Photography? One remarkable way to achieve this is through the lens of a camera. Landscape photography, in its various niches, offers a unique gateway to escape the chaos of everyday life and discover the profound mental health benefits that nature can provide. From the tranquil shores of the South Coast to the breathtaking heights of the South Down, the South of England offers an…
Composition Rule Calculator, Elevate Your Photography Composition Tips
Understanding composition is the cornerstone of producing exceptional photographs. It’s the art of arranging elements within the frame in a way that not only captures the subject but also conveys emotion, tells a story, and draws the viewer’s eye. Composition forms the foundation upon which all other aspects of photography, from lighting to perspective, are built. Whether you’re an amateur enthusiast or a professional photographer, mastering composition is the key to transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary visual narratives. In this quick guide, I’ll delve into the world of 5 photography composition tips and explore how fundamental knowledge in this area can elevate your photography to new heights. Composition Rule Calculator…
3 Settings to Master Depth of Field: The Ultimate Photographer’s Guide and Depth of Field Calculator
Welcome to my world of visual storytelling through the lens. As a passionate photographer, I’ve dedicated myself to capturing the magic of life’s moments, from intimate portraits to sweeping landscapes. I understand the importance of achieving the perfect focus to convey the essence of a scene. That’s why I’ve integrated a powerful calculating depth of field tool (commonly referred to as depth of field in photography or dof ) into this website, designed with fellow photographers like you in mind. How to calculate depth of field is an invaluable tool that allows you to effortlessly calculate the range of acceptable focus in your photographs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking…
How to Capture Christmas Magic: 5 Phone Christmas Photography Tips & Creative Ideas
The Christmas holiday season is here, and it’s the perfect time to capture those special Christmas moments with your smartphone camera. Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned photographer, your phone can be a powerful tool to freeze those festive memories in time. In this article, I’ll share five top tips and five creative things to try for unforgettable Christmas photography. 5 Top Tips for Christmas Phone Photography 1. Clean Your Lens Before you start snapping away, take a moment to clean your phone’s camera lens. Smudges and fingerprints can result in blurry photos. Use a microfiber cloth or a lens cleaning pen to ensure your lens is crystal clear.…
5 Best Rainy Day Photography Tips
Photographing on a rainy day during summer here in the UK may seem like a daunting task for many photographers. However, embracing the unique opportunities that rainy weather presents can lead to capturing stunning and artistic shots. In this article, I will explore 5 Rainy Day Photography Tips that will help you make the most of a rainy day in summer and create captivating images. Additionally, I’ll be referencing some of the most important posts from “Fine Art Pics” to provide you with further insights into landscape, autumn, and canal photography, it’s time for some Creative rainy day shots. Embrace Reflections Rainy days bring an abundance of puddles and waterlogged…
Discovering the Incredible Benefits of Photography
In the depths of my struggles with depression and mental health, I discovered an unexpected source of solace and healing: photography. From my early teenage years to my current stage in life, in my mid-50s, the art of capturing moments has played a profound role in my emotional well-being and my understanding of the mental health benefits of photography. As I reflect on this transformative journey, the lyrics of “Drive” by The Cars resonate deeply, serving as a poignant reminder of the challenges we face and the support we need to overcome them. So What Changed? This is me circa 1983, and in this photograph, I see a version of…
Understanding Photography Vocabulary: A Comprehensive Guide
Welcome to the world of photography! As you embark on your journey to master the art of capturing images, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with the photography vocabulary. Understanding camera terminology, photographic jargon, photo language, and photographic terminology will empower you to communicate effectively in the realm of photography and enhance your learning experience. Photographic Vocabulary encompasses a wide range of terms and concepts that are essential to grasp as a beginner photographer. By immersing yourself in this vocabulary, you will gain the knowledge and confidence to navigate your camera settings, discuss photography techniques, and explore the creative possibilities that lie ahead. Camera Terminology forms the foundation of understanding the…
