7 smartphone photography tips & tricks...

Who doesn't have a smartphone phone?

Exactly!

Everyone is the correct answer, most of us really need to stop taking boring images with it, so watch this 3-minute video that has 7 of the easiest tips for shooting very cool images on any smartphone.

Thanks to the folks from COOPH (cooperative of Photography) for putting this video together, and be sure to check out their YouTube channel as they have a ton of other very informative videos that will do nothing but improve your photography (smartphone and DSLR).

Our free actions are still available...

For those of you who use Photoshop and like the "gritty Dave Hill look" or the look of a tilt-shift lens that we have the free actions (and tutorials) for you!

First, we have two versions of our Dave Hill action, the first is simply a "one-click" and the action is applied, the second has stops at each stage of the effect that will allow you to "tweak" it to your personal taste.

You can get a few more details on this action by following this link.

If you want more control with applying the Dave Hill look you can follow this link for our step by step tutorial.

And next is our "Tilt-shift" action.

Below is a "before & after" so you have an idea of its capabilities and feel free to follow this link for a bit more info.

And like the action above, if you want to have more control regarding how your tilt-shift looks just follow this link for our step by step tutorial.

To get either of these free actions is simple, all you need to do is drop us an email to request the tilt-shift action, or an email requesting the "Dave Hill" action, and we'll send the action of your choosing (with instructions) to anyone who wants it (or them).

And if you want both that's fine too, you don't have to send us two emails, just let us know in your first email.

To get a better look at how the actions look feel free to click on any of these images to view larger in a new window.

Weekend deal on the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm...

There is a great deal this weekend on the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR Lens - Refurbished by Nikon - it's just $149.95!

Some important things to keep in mind:

1. This is a GREAT outdoor lens but is really too slow for shooting indoors or under low light (I know, I've owned it).

2. Because it is so good outdoors I considered it my "vacation lens" as its wide range allowed me to cover so many scenarios.

3. It is refurbished (not new), but was refurbished by Nikon and does come with their warranty.

4. It is DX format (NOT full frame).

All that being said its great glass for not a lot of money.

Have a great weekend!

The rules of Weekly Photo Tips moving forward...

They really are simple (and not that many):

1. If I write a post Monday-Friday it will (almost) always be about photography.

2. If I post over the weekend (or on a holiday) it will very likely be "off topic" (something positive, touching and/or a human interest themed post).

3. Should I write about someone (photographer, vendor, etc.), I'll drop them a note telling them I've done so, not because I'm looking for something in return, it’s just the courteous thing to do, to let folks know when you’ve been talking about them.

4. I plan on having the "rhythm" of at least one post weekly (hence the name "Weekly Photo Tips")

5. If I am going to miss blogging for an extended period (like for vacation) I'll let you good folks know so you won't be wondering if I've dropped off the edge of the earth (because it is flat you know).

6. If I post an image that is not mine (even when I say "here is the work of...") I will ALWAYS put their copyright information right on the image myself. I want it absolutely clear to whom the image belongs.

7. I will ALWAYS give credit where credit is do. If I come across some other peoples cool ideas or techniques that I share on the blog I will make sure to give the appropriate credit (and links) to the person who deserves it.

8. I write like my mom or my children will be reading the post.

9. The theme of this blog matches our review policy, I try NEVER to be or speak negative, and I have no tolerance for internet bullies. Too many folks online emulate the bad examples we see in "reality" TV and I just don't have any desire to participate in that kind of behavior.

That's it, just wanted you to know the rules and standards I hold myself to moving forward and please, feel free to hold my feet to the fire.