If you had told me in the late 1990s that I would still be talking about raw file formats more than 25 years later, I probably would have laughed. Back then, we were all trying to make sense of digital photography as it found its footing, full of excitement and uncertainty. Color management itself was … Read more
Every so often, a client asks me for TIFF files because “the designer says TIFF is better.” It reminds me of my earlier post on high resolution images, how many long-held beliefs in photography aren’t actually based on best practice, but on assumptions. The JPEG vs TIFF debate falls squarely into that category. Some context … Read more
Until recently I wasn’t able to recommend a simple program for managing image collections. DAM software with a clean interface that will appeal to creatives seemed to have become extinct. A creative is anyone who makes digital art; photographer, designer, illustrator, video or music producer. Digital Asset Management software for creatives has undergone many changes … Read more
Digitising a collection of artworks, photographing them with the highest possible accuracy, is both a technical and logistical challenge. It’s a process that demands precision, problem-solving, and a deep respect for the works themselves. Last century, I had the privilege being a full-time assistant to photographer Stuart Scott in Max Dupain’s old studio. Working on … Read more
Myths, facts, and best practices When it comes to digital photography, discussions around file formats can sometimes create more confusion than clarity. One such myth I sometimes encounter is that TIFF is always superior to JPEG. Similar to the misconception on what defines “high resolution”. After nearly 30 years working directly on digital photography standards, … Read more
End of the year is a good time to back up your images. Of course you should regularly back up, and not just once a year! Did you know most pros back up as they photograph? Cameras offer two card slots, and be set up to copy images to each card simultaneously. This offers redundancy … Read more
Twenty-five years ago, I invested in a Nikon D1, the first “affordable” professional digital camera. Before owning the D1, I would occasionally rent Kodak digital cameras when their benefits outweighed the cost of shooting on film. As we entered the new millennium, digital photography started to surpass film in practicality for my corporate and editorial … Read more
Digital imaging has revolutionised photography, making it more accessible and user-friendly. Collaboration between creatives and Big Tech companies has fostered innovation, but the relationship is weakening due to a shift in focus towards influencers and a lack of respect for creatives and copyright principles. Despite this, AI has the potential to enhance creativity and productivity, … Read more
A common question for professional photographers is, “What is your day rate?” Although photographers are often reluctant to discuss day rates, the reality is that clients pay for their time. Day rates originated in editorial photography, particularly for magazines and newspapers. These rates were established by the media companies or their unions, covering a day’s … Read more
People remember film with romanticism. I understand that. The photo below is of my grandparents. I never met my grandfather, whom I’m named after. When I view the original slide I know the light that reflected off my grandfather, through the camera lens, touched the film I now hold in my hand. I went onto … Read more