B&h Photography Podcast

In Part II of our series on astrophotography, we talk with Ian Norman, founder of Lonely Speck, a site dedicated to making astrophotography easy and accessible to all photographers. The website is loaded with great advice, gear reviews, and tutorials on how to photograph the night sky and specifically, the Milky Way, Our conversation with Ian centers on his development as a photographer and provides many tips on how, with very affordable equipment and apps and basic processing, you can create stunning dark sky images. As you will hear, Norman, like his website, is all about sharing experiences and advice on how to simplify and improve your photography. As he says, “there are few photographs that have as much existential impact as a nighttime landscape against the Milky Way.” Join us for this educational and inspirational episode. Guest: Ian Norman Photo: Ian Norman, LonelySpeck.com

In the first of our two-part series on astrophotography, we are fortunate to be joined by two scientists responsible for some of the most awe-inspiring images ever created. Astrophysicist Dr. Jeff Hester was a member of the team that built the camera on the Hubble Space Telescope and is credited with taking “Pillars of Creation,” an extraordinary image of the Eagle Nebula that has been selected by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential photographs in history. Dr. Hester tells us about his time working on the Hubble and how this image was created, as well as offering his insight on the nature of beauty and the relationship between science and art (Hint: They’re not as different as you might think.) Also joining us is Zoltan Levay, the Imaging Team Lead at the Space Telescope Science Institute, whose principal responsibility is to produce and publicize pictures from the Hubble. Mr. Levay discusses the relative nature of color, his techniques for coloring and composing photographs, and the differences

On August 25, the National Parks Service celebrates its 100th Anniversary, and we celebrate the parks and all that they have provided to photography over the years. From early photographers documenting natural wonders to persuade Congress of the value of a park system, to legendary landscape photographers such as Ansel Adams, to the countless tourist snapshots of Old Faithful, and even to Apple’s ubiquitous Half Dome wallpaper, photography and the National Parks have always been intertwined, and our guests understand this as well as anyone. Chris Nicholson is the author of Photographing National Parks, and Kerry Gallivan is the founder of Chimani, an app designed to help users explore and enjoy each National Park. Our discussion touches upon park protocol as it applies to photographers, gear and location tips, the ethics of nature photography, and we celebrate our national achievement and the gift that has been given to generations of photographers. Guests: Chris Nicholson and Kerry Gallivan Photograph: Chris

While digital camera manufacturers are constantly looking for ways to improve and increase resolution, dynamic range, frame rate, ISO, and…everything, a very strong counter trend has emerged that is turning back to analog, mechanical, and film techniques. Standing out among these “throwback” technologies is the rising popularity of instant film and instant film cameras. Fujifilm Instax has seen their sales soar but more interesting is the Impossible Project, who, in just a few years has become the go-to source for a wide variety of instant film and, recently, instant cameras, such as the new I-1 Instant Film Camera. On today's episode we talk with Patrick Tobin from Impossible and photographer George Weiss, who incorporates instant film into his portrait and wedding work. We discuss how Impossible began by purchasing the last remaining Polaroid film factory, how they refurbish cameras for re-sale and continue to tweak their instant film chemistry. Join us for an enlightening discussion on the intricacies of a

There are good reasons for this episode to have a two-in-one headline. Our initial idea for this show was to discuss the role that happenstance and luck play in photography, but the conversation with our impassioned and articulate guests, Amy Touchette and Gus Powell, quickly turned to a more generalized chat on the principles and practices of street photography—and how lucky we were to have them speak intimately about their work and on photography as an artistic and personal endeavor. For me, it doesn’t get much better! But back to the two titles within a title—perhaps it is our collaboration with chance and a photographer’s ability to recognize, organize, prepare for, and even control what is referred to as chance that is the true essence of street photography. As better writers than I have written, “You make your own luck, Gig,” or “Luck is not chance, it's toil; fortune's expensive smile is earned.” Finally, and this quote seems made for the street photographer: “Chance favors those in motion.” Drop us a

With the recent announcement of the Hasselblad X1D-50c Medium Format Mirrorless Camera, the debate about sensor size and resolving power has taken a whole new turn. What does the release of this impressive camera say about the future of medium format? Will this camera appeal to DSLR shooters, whether professional or enthusiast? Will traditional medium format photographers embrace it? This week’s episode of the B&H Photography Podcast provides an introduction to digital medium format photography and takes a look at this new camera, as well as medium format digital backs and the Pentax 645Z, released to much acclaim two years ago. We also discuss the value of medium format sensors in light of the recent availability of ultra-high resolution DSLR and mirrorless cameras from Nikon, Sony and, specifically the Canon 5DS and 5DS R. Guests: Levi Tenenbaum and Jeremy Tan

Digital video is a huge a part of “photography” now. There are almost no digital cameras introduced without some kind of video capability and, in some cases, “still” cameras are the go-to choice for professional videographers. Recently, we have seen 4K video surpass 1080 as the standard, and many camera lines, from DSLR to smartphone, are now providing 4K capability, but is this level of quality really warranted or even effective in a point-and-shoot camera? Today’s episode of the podcast will take on this question and, in so doing, we will discuss the particulars of 4K, including what camera models offer this high-definition quality, how do sensor size and form factor affect image quality, what peripherals are needed to make videos of a quality that merit 4K, and what’s the point of recording 4K if you can’t screen 4K? Join us as two B&H experts help clear the air regarding 4K video in still cameras. Guests: Josh Pomponio and Shawn Steiner

What will our future selfies be like? Our guest, Stephen Mayes, suggests that they may be images of what we think rather than what we see. For those of you exasperated by the deluge of duck faces in your social media feed, this may be a terrifying idea, but is the selfie really that bad, and if so, how and why is it different than an artist’s self-portrait? These are the questions we address in this week’s episode and, to do so, we have invited the inimitable Mr. Mayes and photographer Nicky Wanzi, whose recent series of self-portraits, in which she depicts not only herself but also two of her best friends, was included in PDN’s 2016 Photo Annual. Join us for this enjoyable conversation as we expose the selfie. Guests: Stephen Mayes and Nicky Wanzi Photograph: John Harris

Are dance and photography natural enemies? Well, of course not, but one art form is about the still, captured moment, and the other about choreographed movement and fluidity. However, anyone who truly understands photography knows the importance of timing, grace, and harmony, and a dancer must also recognize the relevance of rest and static. Sculpture, or gesture perhaps, is their common bond and our two guests know well the significance of gesture and the conflicting and compatible characteristics of dance and photography. They join us to talk about their distinct work and shooting styles. Lois Greenfield is one of the recognized masters of the craft, having developed a singular style sought by the world’s most renowned dance companies, and Omar Z Robles, an official Fujifilm X-Photographer, brings a fresh take, blending aspects of documentary and street photography. Enjoy this episode as we discuss improvisation, inspiration, dodging taxis and, of course, lighting systems and camera and lens choices. Guests

As summer rolls around it’s a good time to assess the best of the new products that have been announced thus far in 2016. With two of our most respected product specialists (and straight-up gear heads) we will discuss the most interesting cameras, lenses and accessories to be introduced thus far in 2016, some aren’t even on the shelves yet. Cameras from Sigma, Pentax, Sony, Canon, Nikon and Olympus are considered and we also touch on new cameras from Leica, Impossible and Hasselblad. Lenses from these manufacturers as well as Voigtlander, Tamron and Lensbaby are highlighted as is gear from Broncolor, Nissin, Tether Tools and others. Enjoy this informative episode with insight from our in-house experts. Guests: Zev Slotkin and Levi Tenenbaum

At the 2016 OPTIC Imaging Conference, we were immersed in the riches of nature and travel photography; so many talented and distinguished photographers were displaying work and discussing their experiences and craft. We at the podcast were fortunate to be able to sit down with several National Geographic photographers for informal yet intimate chats on subjects ranging from photographic influences to shooting styles to gear choices. This week’s podcast presents a selection or compendium, if you will, of highlights from these conversations. We spoke on a variety of topics but we ended each chat with this question: if you had to choose between photography and travel, which would it be? The answers might surprise you. Guests: Ralph Lee Hopkins, Vincent Versace, Brenda Tharp, Jay Dickman, Katrin Eismann, Chris Nicholson Photo Credit: Katrin Eismann

With deference to Linda Richman, today’s podcast offers its version of the 'Coffee Talk' skit from Saturday Night Live—Fuji is for Artists/Sony is for Pros… discuss! We realize, of course, that any camera—used well—can be for professionals and for artists and that artists can be pros and vice versa; we’re not so naïve as to think otherwise. Given the parameters of the topic, however, we take on this idea in a conversation that touches upon the marketing for these high-end mirrorless cameras, who is actually using them, and most important, their feature sets, lenses, and system accessories. Three of our most trusted in-house experts join us to discuss their experiences with the Sony a7 series and the Fujifilm X series cameras as we attempt to clarify the most appropriate applications for each camera line. Now, I’m getting verklempt…so talk amongst yourselves. Guests: Shawn Steiner, Justin Dise, Todd Vorenkamp

The OPTIC 2016 Imaging Conference provided numerous opportunities to talk with some of the most respected nature and landscape photographers working today, but the highlights of our two days at OPTIC had to be our chat with Michael Kenna, the event’s keynote presenter, and our conversation with Paul and John Paul Caponigro. It is unnecessary to summarize the work of these three photographers in any quick description but, suffice it to say, each is a master of his craft. While their work is distinctive and unique, it was wonderful to hear of their common vision, approach—and yes, spirituality—and for this reason, we present their conversations together. With Kenna we spoke of process, why he sticks with medium format film photography and what motivates and inspires his work. With the Caponigros, we touched upon the spirit of art, how to communicate with nature and, with Father’s Day in mind, how to let a child discover his or her own path to artistic expression. Join us for these two inspirational conversation

Every year, B&H hosts the OPTIC Imaging Conference, showcasing the best nature, landscape, and travel photography. The 2016 edition was a stellar outing, with presentations by the most interesting photographers working in those fields. It also serves as a chance for participants to put their hands on the latest cameras, lenses, and gear from the major manufacturers. In today's episode we talk with gear experts from the most respected camera, lens and accessory manufacturers. Sigma: 2:10 Fujifilm: 10:18 Canon: 16:40 ------------------------- Lensbaby: 24:40 Sony: 35:20 Panasonic: 45:35 ------------------------ Tiffen: 54:12 Tamron: 61:17 Nikon: 68:46 OPTIC is a wonderful opportunity to embrace photography, interact with incredible photographers, and play with the latest tools of the trade. This year, legends such as Michael Kenna and Paul Caponigro spoke and presented work, and we will be sharing our conversations with them and other photographers in future episodes, but today we feature a collection of ou

Today we talk cameras! In this episode of the B&H Photography Podcast, we invite two respected members of the B&H team to tell us which one camera offers them all they would ever want from one camera. Well, not exactly, but Christina Smith and Andrea Ortado do provide us with much to consider when we go on this hypothetical journey to find your “desert island” camera. Would it be full frame or film, have interchangeable lenses (but which one lens), would it be rugged and waterproof, be blazing fast or ultra-high resolution? How about high ISO or touch screen or an optical view finder? These are some of the questions we ask as we move toward the conclusion of our episode, when we each reveal which one camera we would choose if we had only one camera to use. Guests: Christina Smith and Andrea Ortado

Wet-Collodion, Daguerreotype, Tintype, Calotype, Gum Bichromate, Van Dyke Brown. Oh my! On this week’s podcast, we welcome Geoffrey Berliner, Executive Director of the Penumbra Foundation, and photographer Jolene Lupo, to talk about alternative process photography. The Penumbra Foundation is an exceptional organization, dedicated to the art, science, and history of photography and Berliner outlines their history and mission and the workshops and facilities they make available to all photographers, while Lupo discusses her tintype work at Penumbra and her Spirit Photography. This episode is a true education, not just on the various alternative processes, but on the history of photography and on how learning the original pre-film processes will improve your digital photography. Guests: Geoffrey Berliner and Jolene Lupo Photograph by Jolene Lupo

The Pulitzer Prizes for Feature and for Breaking News Photography are the highest honors that a photojournalist can receive and, between our two guests, they have won four. Martha Rial won the award for her coverage of Rwandan refugees fleeing genocide, and Ruth Fremson has won the award for her team coverage of the Bill Clinton impeachment process and for coverage of the 9/11 attacks in New York and of Pakistan and Afghanistan in the months after September, 2001. Both photographers join us to discuss how the Pulitzer Prize affected their lives and careers. We talk about the assignments that earned them their honors, the process of submission, how they were notified of their awards, and how winning the awards and forever being known as a “Pulitzer Prize- winning photographer” changed their assignments and the direction of their work. Join us for this enjoyable conversation with two tremendously talented photographers who have been firsthand witnesses to our shared history. Guests: Martha Rial and Ruth Fremson

Some days, I love my job, and this was most definitely one of those days. We were in a room of heroes, not just heroes of mine, but actual heroes, people who fill their lives, risk their lives, for passion and for the betterment of humanity. The gathering was called “The Pulitzer Prize Photographers,” held in celebration of the centennial of the establishment of the Pulitzer Prize and organized by the Eddie Adams Workshop, the Parsons School of Design, and supported, in part, by B&H Photo. It brought together Pulitzer-Prize-winning photographers from six decades, displayed their history lesson of potent journalism, and gave time and space for their stories to be told. At times, emotion filled the auditorium, tears were shed, but by the end of the night, there was joy—Nick Ut hamming it up in the photo booth, Adrees Latif and Ruth Fremson pressing limes for margaritas at the after-party. I shook hands with Robert Jackson, who captured the shooting of Lee Harvey Oswald, and thanked Daniel Berehulak—he riske

In addition to her fashion and commercial photography, Lindsay Adler is a much sought-after speaker and educator and, after listening to this episode, there’ll be no surprise as to why. With clarity and conviction, she walks us through all the steps of producing commercial and editorial fashion shoots, beginning with the initial contact with the client to concept development, budgeting, casting, and collaboration, all the way to delivery of the final product. Adler offers concrete examples and insightful anecdotes that will appeal to photographers at any stage in their career. Hair, makeup, lighting, gear, set building, retouching, keeping your crew happy, and just how many assistants a professional parrot needs are all part of this enjoyable conversation. Guest: Lindsay Adler

Not Believing in Roadblocks, Part II – The Making of a Photojournalist Photojournalist and 2016 World Press Photo award winner Adriane Ohanesian joins us for a captivating two-part conversation on her work in South Sudan, Darfur, and Burma, and describes how she made the transition from anthropology student to conflict and humanitarian photographer. This conversation is divided into two parts, but its themes of women in photojournalism and the difficult but fulfilling life of freelance work in war-torn areas permeates the entire conversation. With her confident and compassionate demeanor, Ohanesian relates how she was introduced to the cultures of East Africa, snuck into South Sudan to begin her career, faced down military commanders and navigated a month-long trek into Darfur to photograph displaced families living in a cave. She also talks about the challenges and advantages of being a female photojournalist and the amazing resilience of people living through years of war and abuse. Also joining us on this