Editor’s Note: As I reflect on our 28th Wedding Anniversary, which is today, I’m compelled to write these thoughts. It’s a celebration of our enduring love and the profound impact Dorie Griggs, my cherished wife, has had on shaping my understanding of others. Your unwavering care and dedication to helping me see beyond my perspectives have been transformative. It’s not merely about learning to listen; it’s about the courage to question the beliefs that might hinder our comprehension of others. Your guidance has revealed that genuine empathy demands attentive ears and a willingness to challenge our assumptions and beliefs.

In a world that often champions self-assuredness, the proper depth of understanding lies in our ability to empathize. Empathy isn’t just a personal attribute; it’s the cornerstone for businesses seeking to comprehend their clients and provide services that resonate with their needs.

We often default to assuming we’ve grasped the world’s complexities, shaping our care for others based on this fixed worldview. However, life continually teaches us the importance of listening with all our faculties—eyes, ears, mind, and heart.

In our current society, polarization seems to grow, partly due to a deficiency in fundamental aspects of caring for others, extending beyond our self-interests.

Whether you’re a freelancer or a professional, cultivating empathy can transform how you connect with others. Here are some practical tips:

1. Active Listening: Engage fully when your customers share their needs and concerns. Listen not just to respond but to truly understand their perspective.
2. Put Yourself in Their Shoes: Delve into your customers’ experiences. Ask yourself how you would feel or act in their situation. This exercise fosters a deeper understanding of their needs.
3. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask clarifying questions. It demonstrates your interest and commitment to comprehending their unique situation.
4. Embrace Feedback: Encourage open feedback from customers. Constructive criticism helps tailor your services to suit their requirements better.
5. Cultivate Understanding in Personal Relationships: Extend empathy beyond business. Practice empathy with your family and friends by actively listening and supporting them without judgment.

Remember, empathy isn’t a fixed trait; it’s a skill that can be honed and refined over time. By incorporating these practices into your professional and personal interactions, you’ll enhance your relationships and deepen your understanding of the diverse perspectives around you.

Here’s a reading list of books on empathy, along with their respective links That I found online for you:

1. Mean People Suck: How Empathy Leads to Bigger Profits, and a Better Life by Michael Brenner Brenner confronts the most significant challenges from his 53 different jobs as a business owner and sales and marketing leader. He gained great insight into empathy’s role in success in those various positions. His book tackles why people are dissatisfied at work; much of it comes down to the simple principle that mean people suck.
2. The Empathy Effect: 7 Neuroscience-Based Keys for Transforming the Way We Live, Love, Work, and Connect Across Differences by Helen Riess Do you question whether empathy is a matter of nature versus nurture? Dr. Reiss shares her conclusions about empathy based on neuroscience, suggesting that empathy isn’t only innate but also a skill we should all develop and enhance.
3. Mindsight: Transform Your Brain with the New Science of Empathy by Daniel J. Siegel Mindsight seamlessly integrates brain science and psychotherapy. Mastering it could increase your self-awareness, allowing you to develop more profound empathy.
4. The Age of Empathy: Nature’s Lessons for a Kinder Society by Frans de Waal Is selfishness the worst evil? More importantly, is being greedy and selfish innate to human nature? These are the questions posed by the author, and he believes that selfishness isn’t inherent. By studying social behaviors in animals, his book makes the case for empathy being an instinct.
5. Empathy: Why It Matters, and How to Get It by Roman Krznaric The author interviews a wide range of professionals, determining six life-altering habits of those with high empathy.
6. Empathy curated by Harvard Business Review Harvard Business Review collected multiple original articles about empathy and produced a book, offering an Empathy 101-style overview.
7. The Empathy Factor: Your Competitive Advantage for Personal, Team, and Business Success by Marie R. Miyashiro Research in brain science, organizational theory, and emotional intelligence all support the author’s definition of empathy.
8. Well-Designed: How to Use Empathy to Create Products People Love by Jon Kolko The author repositions the typical sales process, putting the customer at the center and explaining how empathy could be a competitive advantage.
9. Wired to Care: How Companies Prosper When They Create Widespread Empathy by Dev Patnaik Dev Patnaik explains how powerful empathy can be in a business context by exploring big-name brands.
10. The Art of Empathy: A Complete Guide to Life’s Most Essential Skill by Karla McLaren This book draws support from neuroscience, social psychology, and healing traditions, teaching you how to perceive and feel other people’s experiences sincerely.
11. Applied Empathy: The New Language of Leadership by Michael Ventura, The author, drawing from a storied career, offers fundamental strategies for leveraging empathy to become a better leader.
12. Compassion Inc.: Unleashing the Power of Empathy in Life and Business by Gaurav Sinha Sinha puts forth the idea of the economics of empathy for life and business, offering actionable solutions for the changing business world.

Transitioning to a new camera system often means bidding farewell to trusted gear. As I delve deeper into the world of Nikon’s Z9 system and its accompanying Z lenses, I’ve come to realize the remarkable evolution that has taken place in lens technology. This shift has led me to part ways with some cherished DSLR lenses that have faithfully served me through countless photographic journeys.

The decision to sell my beloved lenses was a challenging one. Each of them holds a special place in my collection, embodying the craftsmanship and quality I’ve come to expect from reliable tools of the trade. Yet, the advancements in Nikon’s mirrorless offerings have been revolutionary.

The recent lineup of lenses designed explicitly for the Nikon Z series has left me in awe. The leap in quality, focusing speed, and reduced weight is unparalleled compared to the stalwart DSLR lenses that accompanied me on numerous shoots. The convenience and superior performance of the Z lenses have proven to be a game-changer, encouraging me to streamline my gear for enhanced efficiency and uncompromised excellence.

Among the lenses bidding farewell, the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM with the TC-1401 & TC-2001 attachments stands tall as a pinnacle of excellence. Its exceptional performance and versatility have captured moments that would have been otherwise impossible. The Sigma EX DG APO OS HSM 70-200mm F/2.8, a paragon of precision and reliability, has been a steadfast companion, delivering impeccable results repeatedly. Even the Samyang 14mm F2.8 Wide Angle Lens with an AE Chip for Nikon, in its mint condition, has been an indispensable tool for capturing expansive landscapes.

While parting with these lenses feels bittersweet, it’s an acknowledgment of the exciting advancements that Nikon has made in the realm of mirrorless photography. However, I find myself reminiscing about the days when visiting the local camera store meant engaging in the ritual of trading old gear for the latest upgrades. There’s a charm in that tactile exchange that’s worth cherishing.

For those interested, these lenses, meticulously maintained and in excellent or mint condition, now seek new homes on eBay. They’ve been cherished and respected and contributed immensely to my photographic journey. As I turn the page to embrace the cutting-edge capabilities of the Nikon Z9 system, I do so with gratitude for the moments these lenses helped me immortalize.

The evolution of technology often demands letting go of the old to embrace the new. In this transitional phase, I bid a fond farewell to these exceptional lenses, confident they’ll continue to inspire and empower others in their photographic endeavors, just as they did for me.

Caption: Bringing healthcare closer, one conversation at a time. Nurse Practitioner Holly Friesen and translator Ana Calcavura collaborate to bridge the gap in Hiliuți, Fălești District, Moldova, ensuring everyone receives the care they deserve.

In the digital landscape of 2024, where Artificial Intelligence (AI) reigns supreme, authenticity has become the beacon guiding organizations toward genuine connections. As business leaders shaping the narratives of our companies, the way we tell stories holds immense power. In this era, nothing speaks to authenticity and care for your people like visual storytelling through professionally captured, genuine photographs of your team.

The Essence of Authenticity

Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the essence of meaningful connections. While AI technology offers convenience, its shadow often casts doubt on the genuineness of content. On the other hand, authentic photos convey real faces, genuine emotions, and unfiltered moments through the lens of a professional. These images speak volumes about an organization’s commitment to transparency and its reverence for the individuals within it.

Crafting Compelling Narratives

Visual storytelling is more than just pretty pictures; it’s about the stories they portray. Your company’s narrative shouldn’t be a glossy facade but a collection of human experiences. Consider sharing stories of resilience, triumph over challenges, or the passion that drives your team. Highlight the diverse backgrounds and unique journeys of your employees. These narratives form a tapestry of authenticity that resonates deeply with your audience.

The Role of Photojournalists and Documentary Storytellers

In the landscape of 2024, photojournalists and documentary storytellers stand out as champions of authentic visual storytelling. Their craft involves capturing raw emotions, genuine moments, and unfiltered realities. Their lenses don’t fabricate; they unveil the truth. Collaborating with these professionals allows organizations to present narratives that bypass skepticism, forging genuine connections with their audience.

Practical Tips for Authentic Visual Storytelling:

1. Humanize Your Brand: Showcase the people behind your organization, their stories, and their impact.
2. Candid Moments: Embrace unscripted moments that reflect the real essence of your culture and work environment.
3. Diversity and Inclusion: Celebrate the richness of diversity within your team and highlight its contributions.
4. Consistency: Maintain authenticity across all touchpoints, ensuring a coherent and genuine brand image.

Embracing Authenticity in 2024

In an age where AI often blurs the lines between reality and fabrication, authenticity emerges as the bedrock of credibility and connection. Organizations bridge the gap between skepticism and trust by weaving genuine visual stories skilled professionals capture. This approach showcases a sincere commitment to their people and values.

Here’s to embracing authenticity in storytelling and fostering genuine connections in 2024!

In the bustling world of photography freelancing, the art of persuasion often takes center stage. Yet, what if I told you that the most potent tool in your arsenal isn’t your eloquence or sales pitch but your ability to listen deeply?

A fascinating insight unfolds in the book The Persuaders by Anand Giridharadas: the path to genuine persuasion doesn’t lie in replacing beliefs but in displacing them. Giridharadas interviewed Loretta Ross, and her wisdom resonates profoundly as she highlights the art of unsettling ideas rather than forcefully replacing them. It’s about fostering curiosity, raising questions, and reducing certainties rather than imposing new convictions.

So, how does this translate to the world of freelance photography? The key lies in engaging in conversations with your clients and potential clients on a deeper level. Here’s a quick tip list on how to truly listen and understand your client’s struggles in the coming year:

1. Start with Genuine Interest: Initiate conversations by asking open-ended questions about their experiences and opinions. Create a space for personal stories to unfold.
2. Share Your Own Stories: Foster a sense of camaraderie by sharing your experiences and opinions. This builds a connection and encourages reciprocal sharing.
3. Seek Universal Connections: Explore how their struggles resonate with broader human experiences. It’s about normalizing their issues and making them relatable on a universal scale.
4. Invest Time: Understand that genuine understanding takes time. Aim for at least 30 minutes of deep conversation to grasp their challenges and perspectives.

As we enter 2024, let’s kickstart the year by initiating meaningful conversations with our clients. Here’s a quick list of ways to extend a conversation beyond a brief exchange:

1. Ask Thought-Provoking Questions: Encourage discussion by posing questions that prompt introspection rather than simple yes/no answers.
2. Be Authentic and Vulnerable: Share your thoughts and vulnerabilities. It builds trust and encourages them to open up.
3. Listen Actively: Focus on what they’re saying without forming your response. Show genuine interest and understanding.
4. Create a Safe Space: Ensure they feel comfortable expressing themselves without judgment or pressure.

Remember, persuasion isn’t about pushing an agenda; it’s about fostering genuine connections and understanding. So, here’s to a year of listening deeply, understanding profoundly, and creating stronger bonds with our clients—one meaningful conversation at a time.

Caption to top photo: [NIKON Z 9, NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S, Mode = Aperture Priority, ISO 25600, 1/4000, ƒ/5.6, (35mm = 400)]

Blog On My Nikon Z9 Sports Settings

This blog post is in response to my friend Seth, who asked me on Facebook today, “Great shots. Do you have much trouble with focusing on the wrong player?”

Hey Seth! Thanks for checking out the shots from the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl game! You asked about focusing on the wrong player in sports photography, and it’s an art that’s both technical and intuitive. Let’s dive into what makes those great shots happen and why sometimes, despite all efforts, we miss capturing those pivotal moments.

Positioning is key. To consistently snap great sports photos, anticipation beats reaction. Balancing coverage is crucial when shooting for multiple teams, as I did in this game. Previously, focusing solely on one team allowed me to predict movements better, aiming to capture faces rather than backs and positioning strategically, like staying on the offensive end in basketball.

Knowing the teams inside out is like having a crystal ball. Familiarity with their plays and tendencies helps anticipate actions, whether a pass or a run, increasing the odds of having the lens trained on the action sooner.

Technical settings matter, too. Continuous focus and the back button focus technique ensure more shots are in focus than just following without constant adjustments. However, misses happen even with the best setup, mirroring how a defense can be deceived in a game.

Basketball? Enter remote cameras, providing different angles for coverage. Football, with its vast goal, makes this more challenging. Technicalities matter, and I’ve shared a link detailing my Nikon Z9 setup for sports photography for those interested in the nitty-gritty.

Knowing the sport inside out is the golden ticket. While understanding the game is one thing, each team’s uniqueness demands a deeper dive into their playbook. This familiarity allows for better anticipation of plays and player movements.

Speaking of gear, today’s cameras, like my Nikon Z9 with Z glass lenses, offer incredible focusing systems and rapid-locking motors, enhancing the number of in-focus shots. This allows quick shifts between capturing the quarterback’s throw and the receiver’s catch, minimizing missed moments.

So, in a nutshell, nailing sports photography isn’t just about having the right equipment and technical know-how—it’s about understanding the game, predicting actions, and being ready to adjust on the fly. The perfect shot often lies at the intersection of anticipation and preparedness.

Have you got any more questions? I am always happy to chat about the thrilling world of sports photography!

Happy shooting

The photo above is of a finger, and the background has changed to a robot to use as an illustration with the help of generative fill in PhotoShop.

Photography, as an art and a profession, has never been static. The field has constantly evolved from its earliest days of cumbersome equipment to the era of smartphones and AI-powered image creation. Technological advancements have continually reshaped how images are captured, shared, and appreciated, significantly impacting the professional photography landscape.

One of the most notable shifts began with the advent of tools like light meters, autofocus, and various metering systems. These innovations simplified the technical aspects of photography, enabling more people to engage in capturing images. However, the monumental leap into digital capture revolutionized the industry. Suddenly, the guesswork of film was replaced by immediate results, altering the very essence of the photographic process.

The arrival of Artificial Intelligence elevated this transformation to new heights. AI now enables the creation of images that transcend reality, blurring the lines between photography and art. Yet, despite the sophistication of AI, its effectiveness hinges on human direction and input. Merely commanding it to produce a “great photo” falls short; specific prompts are necessary to translate ideas into visual realities.

Undoubtedly, the question arises: Is AI encroaching upon the domain of professional photographers? The answer is a nuanced one. While technology certainly streamlines the process, the creative prowess of individuals truly unlocks its potential. The synergy between human creativity and technological tools amplifies the impact of both.

Digital capture and mirrorless cameras democratized photography, making it more accessible. Smartphones, serving multifunctional purposes, further altered the landscape by ensuring a camera was always at hand. Consequently, the role of professional photographers evolved. They were no longer hired solely for image capture; instead, they were sought after for their ability to transcend mere documentation, offering something unique and profound.

A timeless truth lies at the heart of this evolving industry: Great photography stems from great ideas. Even when not creating the scenes they capture, photojournalists must possess a keen eye for stories and conflicts that resonate. They must understand their audience and effectively communicate the significance of their work.

A dichotomy exists within the profession – the creative visionaries and the master technicians. While AI may potentially threaten the latter, those harnessing its capabilities with creative insight will likely thrive. The future belongs to those who can merge the secret sauce of creativity with a deep understanding of technology and audience engagement.

Success in this dynamic industry is not merely about mastering the tools; it’s about comprehending why an audience craves a particular idea. The leaders of tomorrow’s photography landscape will be those who skillfully blend innovation, technical prowess, and an acute understanding of human emotion and narrative.

In this ever-evolving realm, the essence of photography persists: It’s not just about capturing an image; it’s about capturing a moment, a feeling, or an idea that resonates deeply with its audience. The fusion of human ingenuity and technological advancement is the lens through which the future of professional photography will be defined.

In the ever-evolving sphere of photography, the approach to earning a living through your lens has shifted dramatically. One significant aspect is the landscape of stock photography. Once a lucrative avenue, the income potential from stock sales has seemingly decreased compared to previous years. Despite this apparent decline, there are compelling reasons why photographers should continue to explore and engage in stock sales.

1. Diversifying Revenue Streams

Diversification remains pivotal for financial stability. While the earnings per image might not match historical highs, the collective income from multiple photos across various platforms can still provide a consistent revenue stream.

2. Exposure and Networking Opportunities

Stock photography platforms serve as valuable hubs for exposure to a vast audience. The visibility gained through these platforms often leads to new opportunities, including potential client inquiries, collaborations, and direct sales of your work.

3. Portfolio Enhancement and Skill Development

Engaging in stock photography encourages photographers to refine their craft continually. It challenges them to create marketable content, push creative boundaries, and enhance technical skills. Moreover, it offers a platform to experiment with diverse styles and subjects, enriching their portfolio.

4. Passive Income Potential

While immediate returns might not be as significant as commissioned work, stock sales offer a form of passive income. Once uploaded, images generate revenue over time, creating a cumulative income stream as the portfolio expands.

5. Adaptation to Market Trends

Stock photography reflects evolving trends in visual content consumption. Photographers gain insights into in-demand imagery by participating in stock sales, enabling them to adapt their shooting style and subject choices to meet market demands.

6. Global Reach and Impact

Stock photography transcends borders, allowing photographers to reach a global audience. Your images can be licensed and used in various contexts, contributing to a broader impact than local or commissioned work.

7. Contribution to the Creative Community

Sharing work on stock platforms fosters a vibrant, creative community. Your images can inspire others and be utilized by fellow artists, designers, and businesses, fostering collaboration within the industry.

Places to Sell Your Images

Now, where should photographers showcase their work for sale? Here are some prominent platforms:

1. Adobe Stock: A well-known and established platform integrated into Adobe Creative Cloud.
2. Shutterstock: A popular platform with a vast user base and a broad range of image categories.
3. Getty Images: Known for its high-quality standards, Getty Images offers the potential for higher earnings.
4. iStock: Owned by Getty Images, iStock offers a range of options for contributors.
5. Alamy: An excellent platform for those seeking higher commissions per sale and flexibility in licensing.

Conclusion

While the heyday of stock photography might have evolved, the benefits of engaging in stock sales remain compelling. Diversification, exposure, skill enhancement, passive income, market adaptability, global reach, and community contribution underscore the significance of participating in stock photography.

Ultimately, the income potential might not match historical highs, but the multifaceted advantages make stock sales an integral part of a photographer’s journey in today’s dynamic industry. Exploring these platforms can sustain income and foster growth, learning, and a broader impact within the photography community.

Finding a mentor can be incredibly valuable for personal and professional growth. Here are some practical steps to find a mentor:

1. Define Your Goals:

• Know What You Want: Clarify your goals and what you hope to gain from a mentorship. Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth.

2. Identify Potential Mentors:

• Look Within Your Network: Consider people you admire or respect in your field or industry.
• Attend Networking Events: Engage in events, seminars, or conferences to meet potential mentors.
• Utilize Online Platforms: Websites like LinkedIn or professional organizations often have mentorship programs or groups.
• Consider Diverse Perspectives: Your mentor doesn’t have to be in the same field; sometimes, diverse perspectives bring unique insights.

3. Build Relationships:

• Start Small: Initiate contact by attending their talks, emailing, or connecting on social media.
• Offer Value: Show genuine interest and offer something valuable in return. It could be assistance on a project or sharing your skills.
• Be Respectful of Their Time: Understand their schedule and be considerate when asking for their guidance.

4. Make the Ask:

• Be Direct and Specific: When you’ve established rapport, ask if they’d be willing to mentor you or provide occasional guidance.
• Explain Your Goals: Clearly articulate why you believe their guidance would benefit your growth.

5. Establish Expectations:

• Set Clear Objectives: Define the mentorship’s structure, frequency, and duration.
• Be Open and Flexible: Be receptive to feedback and willing to adapt based on their suggestions.

6. Nurture the Relationship:

• Stay Committed: Be consistent in communicating and follow through on agreed-upon commitments.
• Show Gratitude: Acknowledge and appreciate their guidance and time regularly.

7. Expand Your Network:

• Keep Learning: Even with a mentor, seek guidance from various sources. Multiple perspectives can enrich your growth.

Additional Tips:

• Consider Reverse Mentorship: Don’t overlook the opportunity to learn from younger or less experienced individuals who might offer fresh perspectives.
• Join Mentorship Programs: Many formal and informal organizations offer structured mentorship programs. Research and join those relevant to your interests or industry.

Remember, finding a mentor might take time and several attempts. Be persistent, genuine, and willing to learn throughout the process.

Would you like tips on maintaining a good mentor-mentee relationship once you find one?

Showcasing one’s capabilities as a photographer is pivotal in attracting clients. Your portfolio is your visual resume, the first impression potential clients have of your work. Here are some insights and tips on the importance of displaying your range as a photographer:

The Power of Visual Representation

1. Show Diversity: Clients often have a specific vision in mind. If they don’t see a style or type of photography they like, they’re less likely to reach out. Displaying a diverse range helps cater to different preferences.

2. Tailor Your Portfolio: Segment your portfolio to reflect different genres or styles. Create sections for weddings, family portraits, landscapes, or commercial work. This allows clients to navigate and find what resonates with them easily.

3. Highlight Your Best Work: Quality over quantity matters. Showcase your best shots, highlighting your skills, creativity, and versatility.

Tips for Photographers:

1. Curate a Strong Portfolio: Your portfolio should be a well-curated selection of your finest work. A smaller selection of top-notch images is better than a more extensive collection with mediocre shots.

2. Regularly Update: As you grow and evolve as a photographer, update your portfolio accordingly. Keep it fresh to showcase your latest and best work.

3. Show Your Range: Don’t limit yourself to one style. Experiment, explore, and display the various genres and techniques you excel in.

4. Use Social Media: Utilize platforms like Instagram, Flickr, or Behance to share your work regularly. Social media is a powerful tool for reaching a wider audience and attracting potential clients.

5. Seek Feedback: Ask peers, mentors, or clients for feedback. Constructive criticism can help you refine your portfolio and improve your presentation.

6. Customize for Clients: When pitching to potential clients, consider curating a sample selection that aligns with their specific needs or style preferences. Tailoring your showcase can make a significant impact.

Conclusion:

Your portfolio isn’t just a collection of images; it’s your sales pitch, your calling card. It’s crucial to present a well-rounded view of your capabilities. By showcasing your range, you attract more clients and increase the chances of engaging those who might not have initially considered your services.

Remember, your portfolio is a living, evolving entity that should consistently reflect your growth and talent as a photographer. Keep refining, updating, and diversifying—it’s the key to unlocking more opportunities in the competitive world of photography.

Photography is an art form intertwined with technology, and for Nikon camera owners, capturing moments can occasionally come with unexpected hiccups. Sometimes, those elusive glitches creep in, and the instinct is to blame the camera. But what if the answer lies not just in understanding the exposure triangle—ISO, shutter speed, and aperture—but in dissecting the intricate settings the camera used when the photo was taken?

Enter the often underutilized hero: the Nikon NX software. Beyond the commonly acknowledged exposure elements, this software unravels a treasure trove of information. It doesn’t just stop at the basics; it dives into the nitty-gritty—like focus settings, where your camera locks its focus, and many other configurations.

Understanding Beyond the Basics

Sure, the exposure triangle is the cornerstone of photography fundamentals. However, focusing solely on these aspects might overlook critical details. Imagine the frustration of blaming a blurry image on the camera, only to find out later that the focus was off, not the camera itself.

With the Nikon NX software, photographers can access a comprehensive breakdown of the settings used during the shot. It’s akin to peering under the hood of your camera post-capture, dissecting each element to understand the intricate dance of settings that contributed to that specific photo.

Isolating the Culprit

Picture this: you’ve captured a breathtaking landscape, but upon review, there’s an unexpected graininess or an unwarranted softness. Instead of throwing your hands up in frustration, the Nikon NX software empowers you to play detective.

Here is all the file info for the photo above:

By scrutinizing the detailed metadata captured by the software, you can isolate the exact setting causing the issue. Was it a misguided autofocus? Or perhaps an overlooked change in ISO sensitivity? With this software, you can identify and rectify problems swiftly and accurately.

The Power of Comprehensive Analysis

Photography is more than the sum of its exposure triangle parts. It’s about the intricate interplay of settings, focus modes, and nuanced adjustments that craft the final image. The Nikon NX software offers a panoramic view of these settings, elevating your troubleshooting prowess beyond what meets the eye.

The software leaves no stone unturned, from White Balance to Picture Controls, Active D-Lighting to Metering Modes. It’s like having a backstage pass to your camera’s performance, allowing you to understand what went wrong and why.

Conclusion

Next time you encounter an unexpected glitch in your Nikon-captured masterpiece, resist the urge to pin it solely on the camera. Instead, harness the power of the Nikon NX software—a tool designed to demystify the intricate web of settings and unveil the truth behind each shot.

Remember, photography is a delicate dance between artistry and technology, and with the right tools at your disposal, troubleshooting those occasional hiccups becomes a smoother, more enlightening process. So, delve deeper, analyze meticulously, and let your Nikon camera reveal its secrets through the lens of the NX software.

Happy shooting and troubleshooting!

Caption: Artist Kate Saville painting a mural on the break room wall.

In the vast canvas of life, some moments mark profound shifts—a mosaic of passages that weave through our existence, reshaping who we are and how we express ourselves. Gail Sheehy’s timeless work, “Passages,” illuminates the ebbs and flows of personal development and resonates deeply with the transformative stages of a creative journey.

Much like life, creativity isn’t a stagnant pond but a flowing river, demanding adaptation and evolution. Sheehy echoes this sentiment: “Creativity could be described as letting go of certainties.” Artists find fertile ground for innovation by releasing rigid assumptions and embracing uncertainty.

Early in our creative pilgrimage, we tread the path of learning. It’s a time of exploration and discovery, akin to the tumultuous twenties Sheehy describes. The choices made, be it committing to a medium, honing a craft, or embracing a particular style, often feel irreversible, laden with the weight of permanence. Yet, as we immerse ourselves in the process, we realize that change is inevitable and essential for growth. “If we don’t change, we don’t grow. If we don’t grow, we aren’t living,” Sheehy’s words reverberate, reminding us that artistic stagnation is antithetical to the essence of creation.

As proficiency blossoms and mastery beckons, the echoes of Sheehy’s wisdom resonate louder. It’s not merely about competence; it’s about recognition and respect. Artists yearn not just to create but to be acknowledged, to have their voices heard amidst the din of the creative realm. This quest for validation shapes the transition into the thirties and forties—a phase akin to the ‘rediscovery of community’ that Sheehy depicts. In the embrace of one’s true self lies the nexus where personal authenticity melds with creative expression.

However, life’s passage isn’t a solitary journey. As my wife and I encountered the Empty Nest Syndrome, artists often face unexpected shifts—a reconfiguration of priorities, obligations, and responsibilities. For some, like me, it’s aging parents requiring more care, altering the rhythm of existence. Similarly, for artists, these moments often lead to profound introspection and recalibration of artistic vision.

As Sheehy depicts, the midlife passage mirrors a pivotal juncture in a creative’s voyage. “You can’t take everything with you when you leave on the midlife journey,” she asserts, signaling a departure from external validations. Artists begin to shed the layers of conformity, stepping into an arena of self-discovery and introspection. It’s a time to move away from prescribed roles and external expectations, forging an identity deeply rooted in personal expression.

Ultimately, these passages in life and creativity intertwine, converging in the realization that change is not a threat but a conduit for renewal. The stages laid bare by Sheehy offer a roadmap—a beacon guiding artists through the labyrinth of creative evolution. In embracing these passages and navigating the ebbs and flows, artists transcend mere creation and birth a legacy that speaks volumes to the world.

Scott Kelby is giving a presentation at the Southwestern Photojournalism Conference.

In photography, there’s a common dilemma among amateurs and camera club enthusiasts. Many find themselves entrenched in a loop, diligently mastering exposure-nailing composition techniques yet wondering why their photos fail to garner awards or spark conversations about their brilliance.

Let me share the story of a photographer, let’s call him Alex, who found himself in precisely this situation. Alex was an active member of a local camera club, spending hours perfecting technical aspects—mastering exposure, refining composition, and grasping the intricacies of lighting. Despite his dedication, he couldn’t decipher what set apart the photos that won accolades from the ones he captured. Frustration brewed within him as he yearned to understand the elusive quality the master photographers seemed to possess.

The missing link is more than technical expertise; it’s the ability to transcend the technicalities and delve deeper into creativity, emotion, and vision.

Stepping Beyond the Technical Threshold

While technical skills lay a strong foundation, true photographic mastery lies beyond this threshold. Here’s how you can step out of the loop and elevate your photography:

Embrace Creative Vision

Photography is storytelling through imagery. It’s not merely capturing scenes but evoking emotions and narratives. To break free from the loop, channel your creative energy into telling compelling stories through your photographs. Dive into the world of storytelling, experiment with perspectives, and embrace the power of conveying emotions through your lens.

Understanding the Essence of Light and Atmosphere

Move beyond knowing the lighting rules and explore the nuances of light qualities. Learn to harness the mood-setting potential of different lighting conditions. Embrace the magic of other times of day and weather conditions, as they can infuse your photos with unique atmospheres and emotions.

Establish Connections with Subjects

You are connecting with your subjects, whether people, nature, or inanimate objects, is pivotal. Engage with your subjects to capture genuine emotions and moments that resonate with viewers. Patience, observation, and empathy can elevate your photography to tell stories beyond what meets the eye.

Post-Processing as a Creative Tool

Post-processing is not merely about correcting flaws; it’s a tool to enhance your creative vision. Master the subtle art of editing to complement and amplify the emotions and messages conveyed by your photographs.

Continuous Learning and Inspiration

Always continue to learn. Study the work of photographers you admire, dissecting what makes their photos exceptional. Seek feedback and critique to broaden your perspective and refine your craft continuously.

Conclusion

The true essence of photography lies in transcending the technical realm and embracing the artistry, creativity, and emotional depth that each click of the shutter encapsulates. It’s about storytelling, connecting with viewers, and evoking emotions that resonate long after the photo is taken.

So, to all the Alexes out there—embrace the challenge of moving beyond the technicalities. Dare to infuse your photographs with stories, emotions, and your unique perspective. That’s where the real magic of photography lies.