This is the Storytellers Abroad Workshop team in Lima, Peru. [NIKON Z 6, Sigma 24-105mm ƒ/4 Art, ISO 2000, ƒ/8, 1/200, Focal Length = 24]

Storytelling is essential for individuals and organizations to communicate their experiences, values, and ideas to their audience. However, becoming a proficient storyteller is not a one-time accomplishment but an ongoing process requiring continuous learning and practice.

Professional storytellers who assist people and organizations in finding and communicating their stories must keep up with evolving trends and technologies to remain effective in their craft. In addition, they must stay aware of the cultural, social, and economic shifts in their audience’s preferences to keep their stories relevant and engaging.

As non-fiction storytellers, they must be able to connect their audience with the message they are trying to convey. Therefore, adapting the narrative’s style and content to the audience’s needs is essential, making it easy for them to understand, empathize and find value in it. Storytellers must also be able to weave together facts, emotions, and insights to create compelling narratives that captivate their audience.

Additionally, these professional storytellers must be open to feedback and criticism. Constructive criticism helps them learn and grow, helping them adapt their storytelling style to create better narratives in the future.

In conclusion, storytelling is a never-ending journey for professional storytellers. They must continually improve their craft, adapt to their audience’s changing preferences, and learn from their mistakes to create compelling and relevant stories. This journey requires constant practice, learning, and creativity, but it ultimately makes more effective and powerful narratives for their clients.

As a professional photographer, you may have heard that prime lenses are the only way to truly high-quality images. However, while prime lenses certainly have advantages, they’re not always the best choice in every situation. There are many situations where a zoom lens can be the better choice for a professional photographer.

Here are some reasons why you might want to consider using a zoom lens:

1. Versatility: One of the most significant advantages of a zoom lens is its versatility, and flexibility prime lenses do not. With a zoom lens, you can quickly and easily change your focal length without swapping out lenses. This can be especially useful in dynamic environments where you must quickly capture various shots.
2. Convenience: Zoom lenses are also convenient because you don’t have to carry around multiple lenses. This can be especially important for photographers who are shooting on location and must keep their gear to a minimum.
3. Depth of Field: While prime lenses have the advantage of larger maximum apertures, which can create a shallower depth of field and more bokeh, zoom lenses can also create this effect by zooming in and using a longer focal length.
4. Image Quality: Zoom lenses have come a long way in recent years and can produce excellent image quality. Some zoom lenses even rival the image quality of prime lenses.

Of course, there are still situations where a prime lens might be the better choice. For example, if you’re shooting in low light and need a wide aperture to let in more light, a prime lens with a large aperture might be the best option. However, a zoom lens can be more versatile and convenient for many other situations.

So if you’re a professional photographer who has hesitated to use a zoom lens, it might be time to reconsider. With their versatility, convenience, and image quality, zoom lenses can be an excellent choice for many types of photography.

For Those Who Feel The Need To Comment

It’s important to remember that everyone has their preferences and opinions regarding photography gear and techniques. While some may prefer prime lenses or avoid high ISO settings, others may find value in using zoom lenses or shooting at higher ISOs.

• Regarding the comment about prime lenses: “While some photographers prefer the sharpness and image quality of prime lenses, I find that the versatility and convenience of zoom lenses better suit my shooting style and needs in certain situations. Of course, everyone’s preferences will differ depending on their goals and shooting conditions.”
• Regarding the comment about high ISO: “While it’s true that shooting at high ISOs can introduce noise and reduce image quality, I’ve found that using higher ISO settings can also be a valuable tool for capturing low-light scenes or fast-moving subjects. Of course, there may be situations where it’s better to avoid high ISOs and use other techniques like longer exposures or additional lighting.”

Please remember respectful and constructive dialogue can help build understanding and bridge differences, while trolling or derailing conversations can be counterproductive.

In the Parable of Talents, Jesus tells the story of a man who entrusts his three servants with varying amounts of money while he goes on a journey. Two of the servants invest and grow the money they are given, while the third servant buries his talent in fear of losing it. This parable represents our tendency to play it safe and avoid taking risks, even when it comes to pursuing growth and progress.

Analysis Paralysis and Career Changes

Many individuals struggle with taking action and are stuck in what is commonly referred to as “analysis paralysis.” This is the tendency to overthink and analyze a situation to the point of inaction, leading to missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential. One example of this is a person considering a career change. They may spend months or even years researching different career paths, becoming so focused on analyzing every detail that they never actually take the necessary steps to make a change.

To overcome analysis paralysis, it is important to take small steps towards the goal, even if everything is not figured out yet. Setting deadlines, taking action, and seeking support and guidance from others can all help to move forward and make progress towards career goals.

The Fear of Starting a New Venture

Another example of playing it safe is the fear of starting a new business or pursuing a creative passion. Many people have dreams of starting their own company or pursuing a creative passion but are held back by the fear of failure and the unknown. Like the man who buried his talent, they may choose to play it safe and stick with the security of their current job, even if it means sacrificing their potential for growth and success.

Excuses and Personal Growth

Excuses can also lead to problems in the realm of personal growth and self-improvement. Many people make excuses for not pursuing their passions or working towards their goals, such as “I don’t have enough time” or “I’m not talented enough.” These excuses may feel valid, but they ultimately hold individuals back from reaching their full potential and creating a fulfilling life.

Making Excuses and Stagnation

By not pursuing their passions or working towards their goals, individuals may feel unfulfilled and unhappy in their personal and professional lives. This can lead to strained relationships with family and loved ones and a sense of regret and missed opportunities. It can also create a cycle of complacency and lack of motivation, leading to a stagnation of personal growth and progress.

Take Responsibility for Action and Choices

Ultimately, the message of the Parable of Talents is that we must take action and use our abilities to their fullest potential to grow and succeed. While it can be tempting to play it safe and avoid risk, we must have the courage to step out of our comfort zones and pursue our dreams, knowing that the potential for growth and success is worth the risk. By taking responsibility for our choices and actions, and working towards our goals despite obstacles and challenges, we can create a more fulfilling and secure life for ourselves and those around us.

Photo By Gibbs Frazeur [NIKON D750, 14.0-24.0 mm f/2.8, Mode = Manual, ISO 450, 1/1000, ƒ/8, (35mm = 14)]

As a professional photographer, always having a backup plan for equipment is crucial. This was emphasized to me during my recent experience while doing commercial real estate drone work.

Upon arriving at the job site, I encountered an error message on my DJI Air 2S drone, stating that it could not take off due to a code 30064 error. I immediately attempted to troubleshoot the issue by researching online and downloading new software, but to no avail. Then, I realized the importance of having a backup drone on hand.

Luckily, I had my first drone, the DJI Air 2, with me as a backup, and I could complete the job without any further issues. However, the job could have been a complete disaster if I had not been prepared with a backup drone.

After completing the job, I went home and researched the issue and found the solution was reinstalling the DJI app on my Android phone. However, I did not receive a warning about the DJI app while in the field, which could have prevented the problem altogether.

I have a few tips for fellow drone photographers to avoid similar issues in the future. Firstly, always turn on your drone and update its software before leaving the house. This ensures you have the latest firmware updates and know your internet connection. Secondly, test-fly your drone before the job to ensure everything works as it should. This can prevent any issues from occurring during the actual job. Lastly, always format your SD card after updating the software to ensure no compatibility issues.

In conclusion, my recent experience highlighted the importance of having a backup plan for equipment when doing professional photography, especially when working with drones. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your equipment is always up to date and that you are prepared for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise on the job.

[X-E2, XF55-200mmF3.5-4.8 R LM OIS, Mode = Aperture Priority, ISO 2000, 1/500, ƒ/5.6, (35mm = 300)]

Depth of field is one of the most critical aspects of photography that allows photographers to control the amount of sharpness in a scene. It refers to the range of distances within a scene that appear acceptably sharp in an image. While many assume that depth of field is all about the aperture, the truth is that focal length and distance to the subject are just as crucial.

The aperture is undoubtedly an essential factor that affects the depth of field. A wide aperture (small f-number) results in a shallow depth of field, while a narrow aperture (large f-number) results in a deep depth of field. However, focal length and distance to the subject also play a significant role in determining the depth of field.

Focal length refers to the distance between the lens and the camera’s image sensor. It affects the angle of view, perspective, and image compression. When using a longer focal length, the depth of field appears shallower, making the background blurrier. In contrast, shorter focal lengths result in a deeper depth of field, making more of the scene appear in focus.

Distance to the subject is another critical factor that affects depth of field. When you move closer to the subject, the depth of field becomes shallower. Conversely, when you move away from the subject, the depth of field becomes deeper. This is why portraits shot at a close distance with a wide aperture have a shallow depth of field, resulting in a blurred background.

Therefore, to achieve the desired depth of field, it is crucial to consider all three factors: aperture, focal length, and distance to the subject. A photographer needs to understand these factors and how they interact to create the desired effect in their image.

In conclusion, while the aperture is a crucial factor that affects the depth of field, it is equally important to consider the focal length and distance to the subject. By understanding how these factors interact, photographers can create stunning images with the perfect depth of field for their subject and creative vision.

Investiture Ceremony Honorable J. Elizabeth McBath [NIKON Z 9, NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S, Mode = Aperture Priority, ISO 6400, 1/250, ƒ/5.6, (35mm = 400)]

If you are an avid photographer who loves to capture events, you may have already come across lenses with varying focal lengths. Two of the most popular lenses used for event photography are the 100-400mm and the 28-300mm lenses. While both lenses are versatile and can be used in various situations, the extra 100mm on the 100-400mm lens can make all the difference when capturing high-quality images at events.

The difference in focal length between the two lenses may not seem significant at first, but it can make a world of difference when photographing events. In addition, the extra 100mm on the 100-400mm lens provides a substantial amount of reach that can come in handy in various situations.

First and foremost, the extra reach provided by the 100-400mm lens allows you to capture images of your subjects from a greater distance. This can be particularly useful in situations where you may not be able to get too close to your issues, such as at concerts or sporting events. In addition, with the extra 100mm, you can zoom in and capture details that would have been impossible to capture with the 28-300mm lens.

In addition to the increased reach, the 100-400mm lens provides better image quality. The optics on the 100-400mm lens are designed to give sharper images with less distortion, which is essential when capturing detailed shots at events. The lens also has a wider aperture, which allows more light to enter the lens and provides better low-light performance.

Another advantage of the 100-400mm lens is that it allows you to blur the background more effectively. This is especially useful when photographing portraits or capturing action shots at events. In addition, the lens’s longer focal length helps compress the background, making it easier to create a shallow depth of field and isolate your subject from the background.

Of course, it’s worth noting that the Nikon 100-400mm Z lens is generally about the same weight as the Nikon 70-200mm ƒ/2.8 Z lens, making it easier to carry around all day.

In conclusion, while the 100-400mm and the 28-300mm lenses are versatile and can be used for event photography, the extra 100mm on the 100-400mm lens can make all the difference when capturing high-quality images. The extra reach, improved image quality, and better background blur make the 100-400mm lens a must-have for any event photographer looking to take their photography to the next level.

Backing up your digital content is essential to protecting your precious memories and important data. However, as you’ve discovered, simply copying your files from one drive to another is not enough to guarantee their safety. That’s why having multiple backup copies and a secure cloud storage solution is crucial.

In your case, you’ve wisely taken steps to protect your photos by creating multiple copies on both CDs and DVDs and transferring them to new hard drives. However, as you experienced, some documents failed to communicate appropriately. This is where having an additional backup, in the form of a cloud storage account, can provide peace of mind.

By uploading your photos to a PhotoShelter account, you now have an additional backup accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. In addition, PhotoShelter offers multiple backups of your data, so you can rest assured that your photos are safe even if one backup fails. Plus, sharing your pictures with others is easy, and you can customize access levels and permissions as needed.

You’ve also mentioned exploring a RAID system for your home office. RAID stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks, a system that uses multiple hard drives to provide redundancy and data protection. With RAID, if one drive fails, your data is still accessible from the remaining drives. This can be an excellent way to ensure the safety of your files and provide peace of mind.

In conclusion, it’s crucial to have multiple backup copies of your digital content and a secure cloud storage solution. By following a backup strategy that includes various backups and different media, such as CDs, DVDs, external hard drives, and cloud storage, you can ensure the safety and availability of your photos and other digital content. Additionally, exploring technologies such as RAID systems can provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.

When a client contacts a photographer for a job, there are several key questions and pieces of information that the photographer should gather to provide the best possible service. Some of these include:

1. Type of event or photoshoot: The photographer needs to know what kind of event or photoshoot they will cover, such as a wedding, portrait session, corporate event, etc.
2. Date and location: The photographer will need to know the date and location of the event or photoshoot.
3. Duration: The photographer will need to know how long the event or photoshoot will last.
4. Client’s vision and style: The photographer will want to understand the client’s vision and style for the event or photoshoot, including any specific ideas or themes they have in mind.
5. Budget: The photographer will want to discuss the client’s budget for the job, including any specific concerns or constraints.
6. Prints and products: The photographer will want to know if the client wants any prints or products, such as albums, canvases, or digital files.
7. Editing and retouching requests: The photographer will want to know if the client has any specific requests for editing and retouching, such as specific filters or effects they wish to be applied.
8. Contact information: The photographer will want to get the client’s contact information, such as their name, email address, and phone number, to stay in touch and provide updates on the job.
9. Deadline: The photographer needs to know when the deliverable is expected. Sometimes the client even needs photos during the event or within the hour after the event. Most of the time, they are comfortable with a few days before getting the deliverable, but you need to know their expectations.

By gathering this information, the photographer can better understand the client’s needs and tailor their services to meet their requirements.

Ending the Phone Call

Before ending a phone call with a client, the photographer should summarize the key points discussed during the call and confirm the next steps. For example, they might say something like:

“Okay, so I understand that you’re looking for a photographer for a wedding on June 12th, and you’re interested in having a mix of posed and candid shots. You’re also looking for a package that includes a digital album and some prints. I’ll send you a detailed estimate and some examples of my work in the next few days. Thank you for the call, and I look forward to hearing back from you.”

Regarding giving a formal estimate to the client, it is a good practice to send it in writing after the call rather than giving it verbally. This provides a clear and detailed record of the agreed-upon services and costs, which can be referred to later if necessary. Additionally, it allows the client to take their time to review and consider the estimate, and it gives the photographer a chance to carefully consider the client’s specific needs and requirements before putting together a proposal.

Most of the time, end the call so you can work on the estimate

When you need to end the call and let the client know that you need to work through the numbers before providing a quote, you can use polite and professional phrasing such as:

“Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I have all the information I need to provide you with an accurate estimate. I’ll consider all your requirements and preferences and get back to you as soon as possible with a detailed quote. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Have a great day!”

This lets the client know that you are taking their request seriously and working on providing a comprehensive quote. It also demonstrates professionalism and customer service, which can help to build trust and establish a positive relationship with the client.

When You Must Give a Quote Right Away

Sometimes, a photographer may need to give a quote before the end of the call, such as when the client has a tight deadline or when they need to make a decision quickly. For example, suppose a client contacts a photographer for an event that is taking place the following week and needs to secure a photographer as soon as possible. In that case, the photographer may need to provide a quote during the initial call. In these cases, the photographer should still try to gather as much information as possible about the client’s needs and requirements and then provide a quote that is as accurate and detailed as possible, given the limited information available.

For example:

Client: “Hi, I’m interested in hiring a photographer for an event next weekend. Can you give me a quote?”

Photographer: “Of course! Can you tell me a little more about the event, including the date and location and what kind of coverage you’re looking for?”

Client: “The event is next Saturday, a corporate function downtown. We need someone to cover the event for 5 hours, including both posed and candid shots.”

Photographer: “Okay, I can certainly do that for you. Based on your information, I can give you a rough estimate of $X. Please keep in mind that this is a rough estimate, and a more detailed quote can be provided once I have more information. Does that work for you?”

In this scenario, the photographer provides a quote as requested by the client but notes that the quote is a rough estimate and that a more detailed quote can be provided later. This allows the photographer to secure the job and provide a more accurate quote once they have all the necessary information.

As a photographer, technical skills and subject knowledge are the most critical factors for taking great photos. However, as I was reminded this week, there’s a crucial aspect that often goes overlooked: your relationship with the subject.

I recently worked with Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina, photographing their executive director and leadership team. But the connection between us went much deeper than just a client-photographer relationship.

My father was a pastor at Kennedy Home in Kinston, a part of Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina. Growing up, I received the Charity & Children newsletter and even wrote to Jim Edminson, one of the leaders, to connect and let him know about my background and interests. This connection paid off years later when Jim thought of me to celebrate their executive’s 40 years of service.

Additionally, my grandfather, Rev. Knolan Benfield, was a respected North Carolina pastor, with most of his career spent in Hickory and Morganton.

But there’s another layer to this connection. Don Ball was the first director of social work at Kennedy Home and later created the social work program at East Carolina University, where I got my degree in social work. And when I was introduced to the team, they immediately knew of my background and connection to the organization. They treated me like one of their own, making for a relaxed and comfortable photoshoot.

This experience taught me the power of pedigree in photography. When looking for clients or subjects to work with, take notice of the connections from your past. See who might overlap with your skills and background, and reach out to those people. You never know what opportunities might come from those connections.

In conclusion, while technical skills and subject knowledge are essential, consider the impact of your relationship with the subject. Your pedigree can make all the difference in creating a comfortable and successful photoshoot.

Nikon has always been a trusted brand in the photography industry, and the recent release of their Nikon Z9 camera and lenses has only solidified their position. As a photographer, I have always relied on the versatility of zoom lenses, but with the new Z system, I can now confidently say that most of my jobs can be done with just three lenses: the Nikon 100-400mm, 24-120mm f/4, and 14-30mm f/4.

Gone are the days when I had to carry a bulky kit of lenses to cover different focal lengths. These three lenses provide a versatile range, from 14mm to 400mm, that can handle various shooting situations. The sharpness of these lenses, especially compared to their f-mount predecessors, is a significant improvement that has made a big difference in my work.

Of course, I still keep a few prime lenses, like the 85mm f/1.8 and the 35mm f/1.4, as they provide excellent image quality and offer a more shallow depth of field. But for events, I now have a much smaller selection of lenses that can handle everything from intimate wedding shoots to more significant events like sports.

The versatility of the Z system has allowed me to simplify my gear, and I appreciate Nikon’s continued innovations in this area. As technology advances, I believe it’s essential to evaluate your gear and make changes as needed. By replacing older lenses with new ones, I have been able to stay up-to-date and get the most out of my gear.

In conclusion, the Nikon Z9 and its lenses have been a game-changer for me, and I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a versatile and sharp camera system.

[NIKON Z 9, NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S, Mode = Aperture Priority, ISO 14400, 1/250, ƒ/4, (35mm = 24)]

Nikon DSLR & Digital cameras have come a long way since the release of the Nikon D100 in 2002. Over the years, Nikon has consistently pushed the boundaries of photography with innovative features and advanced technology. Here’s a look at the evolution of Nikon cameras from 2002 to today’s Nikon Z9.

2002- Nikon D100

The Nikon D100 was the first digital SLR camera from Nikon and marked the beginning of the digital age for Nikon. With a 6.1-megapixel sensor, the Nikon D100 was ahead and quickly became a popular choice for professional photographers.

2004- Nikon D2X

The Nikon D2X was an upgrade from the D100 and featured a 12.4-megapixel sensor, improved autofocus, and higher ISO performance. This camera was well-received by professional photographers and set a new standard for image quality.

2010- Nikon D3

The Nikon D3 was a game-changer when it was introduced in 2007. One of the significant innovations of the Nikon D3 was its high ISO performance. Before the release of the D3, digital SLR cameras struggled to produce high-quality images in low-light conditions. The D3, however, was capable of producing clean and noise-free images at ISO levels that were previously unimaginable. This was a significant breakthrough for professional photographers who often work in challenging lighting conditions. Shooting at high ISOs allowed photographers to easily capture fast-moving subjects and produce images with exceptional detail and clarity. Its low-ISO performance below ISO 800 is practically noise-free and retains many details and colors to ISO 12,800.

2012- Nikon D4

The Nikon D4 was a significant upgrade from the D2X and featured a 16.2-megapixel sensor, an advanced autofocus system, and improved high ISO performance. This camera was popular among sports and action photographers and remains a classic today.

2016- Nikon D5

The Nikon D5 was the next generation of the D4 and featured a 20.8-megapixel sensor, an advanced autofocus system, and improved high ISO performance. The camera has 102 more focus points of 153 vs 51 in the Nikon D4. Also it is 2x better video recording quality of 2160 x 30fps vs 1080 x 30fps than with the D4.

2012- Nikon D800

The Nikon D800 was a significant leap forward for Nikon and featured a 36.3-megapixel full-frame sensor. This camera set a new standard for image quality and was a popular choice for landscape and studio photographers. I did not buy this camera or use it, but I was aware of the megapixel count going up.

2018- Nikon Z6 & Z7

With the release of the Nikon Z7, Nikon entered the mirrorless camera market. The Z7 featured a 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor, an advanced autofocus system, and a sleek, compact design. This camera marked a new era for Nikon and paved the way for future mirrorless cameras. The Nikon Z6 is a full-frame mirrorless camera introduced in 2018 alongside the Nikon Z7. The Z6 is positioned as a more affordable alternative to the Z7 and features a 24.5-megapixel sensor, advanced autofocus system, and 4K video capabilities. The Nikon Z6 is a versatile camera well-suited for various photography genres, including portrait, landscape, and action. The compact design and fast autofocus make the Z6 an excellent choice for photographers who need a reliable camera for both stills and video. With its advanced technology and affordable price, the Nikon Z6 is popular with amateur and professional photographers.

2021- Nikon Z9

The Nikon Z9 is the latest and greatest camera from Nikon. This full-frame mirrorless camera features a 45.7-megapixel sensor, improved autofocus, and 4K video capabilities. With its advanced technology and sleek design, the Nikon Z9 is the ultimate tool for photographers.

In conclusion, Nikon has come a long way since the release of the D100 in 2002. With each new release, Nikon has pushed the boundaries of what is possible with digital cameras. From high-quality sensors, advanced autofocus systems, and sleek designs, Nikon has consistently delivered cutting-edge technology to photographers worldwide.

As a freelance photographer, it is crucial to grow and evolve to succeed in a competitive market continuously. However, growth can also bring challenges, and if not approached carefully, it can lead to the downfall of your business.

One significant danger of growth is the potential for the business to outgrow you. When starting, it’s easier to understand every aspect of your business, from client relations to editing techniques. But as your business grows and you take on more clients, it can become challenging to maintain the same level of control and involvement.

This can result in a decline in the quality of your work, decreased client satisfaction, and, ultimately, a decrease in profitability. To avoid these outcomes, freelance photographers must continuously improve their skills and develop their craft.

Additionally, having a clear growth strategy and regularly evaluating and adjusting your plans are crucial for sustainable growth. This will help you stay on track and achieve your long-term goals.

In conclusion, growth is a critical component of success for freelance photographers. By continuously improving your skills, having a well-thought-out growth plan, and regularly evaluating and adjusting your strategy, you can ensure your business continues to thrive and succeed as you grow.

Here are five inspiring quotes on the topic of growth and continuous improvement:

1. “Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together.” – James Cash Penney
2. “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs
3. “Successful people do what unsuccessful people are not willing to do. Don’t wish it were easier, wish you were better.” – Jim Rohn
4. “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
5. “Successful and unsuccessful people do not vary greatly in their abilities. They vary in their desires to reach their potential.” – John Maxwell.

These quotes remind us that growth and success are the results of hard work and determination and that we can reach our full potential by continually striving to improve.