Photography News

 

Retouch4me recently expanded its lineup of automated tools by introducing a neural network-driven plugin designed to tackle the repetitive task of fixing messy hair. By targeting flyaways and misplaced strands that usually need meticulous manual brushing, the software aims to drop significant time from the post-production process for busy portrait and wedding photographers. The tool fits right into existing workflows as a Photoshop extension or standalone app, so photographers can clean up large batches of images locally while keeping everything looking natural.

 

From Retouch4Me

Retouch4me, a developer of AI-based software for photo and video editing, has introduced Retouch4me Stray Hairs, a neural network–powered plugin that automatically removes flyaway hairs and smooths messy hair. The software targets one of the most time-consuming tasks in portrait retouching, saving photographers up to 15 minutes per image.

Removing stray hairs manually requires zooming in, sampling background areas, and carefully painting over each distracting hair. For a single portrait with visible flyaways, this process can take up to 15 minutes. For wedding photographers and other pros handling high-volume shoots, those minutes quickly add up to hours of repetitive post-production work.

Unlike manual Photoshop workflows that require adjusting each image separately, Retouch4me Stray Hairs processes entire batches automatically while keeping hair looking natural and consistent across the set. The neural network was trained on professionally retouched portraits and learned how professional retouchers identify and remove unwanted hairs. The plugin handles three specific tasks: cleaning flyaways along the hair edges, removing hairs crossing the face, and offers optional mask adjustments for precise control when needed.

“Repetitive tasks like stray hair removal are among the most time-consuming parts of post-production, which is why we’re excited to help photographers automate this step,” said Oleg Sharonov, founder of Retouch4me. “Our goal is simple: let photographers focus on their creative vision while the AI-based software handles cleanup. Retouch4me Stray Hairs is a natural extension of our mission to remove repetitive retouching from photographers’ workflows.”

 

 

Workflow and Compatibility

Retouch4me Stray Hairs works as a standalone application or Photoshop plugin for Windows and macOS. In Photoshop, it generates layers, allowing photographers to make further adjustments while keeping the original intact. All processing happens locally on the user’s PC, and batch mode allows photographers to retouch hundreds of images in one run, without changing their existing workflow.

  Availability and Pricing

Retouch4me Stray Hairs is available for $124 as a perpetual license with free updates. No subscription is required. A free trial version is available at https://retouch4.me/stray-hairs

 

About Retouch4me

Retouch4me is a software company that provides innovative solutions for photo and video editing. With neural networks, its software automates manual tasks and delivers natural results, allowing creatives to focus on their artistry. We believe that combining AI and human creativity helps achieve superior results. Retouch4me improves the workflows of creatives in over 115 countries. Discover how to elevate yours at https://retouch4.me

 

Top Gear and Preparation Tips for Starting Out in Travel Photography

 

 

Embarking on a journey into travel photography is more than just taking pictures in exotic locations—it's about capturing stories, understanding cultures, and being equipped with the right tools and mindset. When exploring vibrant markets, remote landscapes, and bustling cities, having the best gear for travel photography and being well-prepared can significantly impact your results.

In this guide, we'll cover essential travel photography gear, practical tips for beginners, and tricks to maintain your equipment while on the move.

 

Explore DepositPhotos for licensed travel photos for your creative projects.

 

How to prepare for a travel photography job as a beginner creator

 

Landing your first travel photography job can be both exciting and overwhelming. The key lies in preparation, consistency, and adaptability.

 

Research your destination

Before heading to popular travel photography hotspots, learn about the local culture, climate, and accessibility. Understand the best times for natural lighting and golden hour shots, and what locations might be sensitive to photography.

Consider these aspects:

• Seasonal light patterns' impact on landscapes;
• Local festivals showcasing vibrant traditions;
• Off-the-beaten-path locations for authentic storytelling;
• Cultural taboos to respect while photographing people;
• Optimal times for capturing iconic landmarks;
• Local markets and their unique visual elements.

 

Build a shot list

A shot list will guide your creative process and show professionalism, especially if you're handling commissioned travel photography jobs. Consider these categories to enhance your visual storytelling:

• Dawn patrol. Early morning cityscapes;
• Local artisans. Traditional craftsmanship;
• Hidden gems. Lesser-known locations;
• Night scenes. Vibrant after-dark moments;
• Architectural contrasts. Old meets new;
• Cultural rituals. Unique local traditions;
• Street food. Culinary experiences.

A well-planned list serves as your visual roadmap, ensuring you capture key moments while allocating time for spontaneity.

 

Check your legal and logistical needs

Ensure you have travel documents, photography permits, and insurance coverage for health and travel photography gear. Investigate permit requirements for protected areas and landmarks. Secure necessary visas, especially for commercial work. Familiarize yourself with local photography laws and cultural sensitivities. Consider these crucial aspects:

• Research drone regulations and no-fly zones;
• Obtain model releases for portrait subjects;
• Respect copyright laws for artwork and performances;
• Review customs regulations for equipment transport;
• Understand privacy laws in public spaces;
• Check restrictions on tripod use in crowded areas;
• Be aware of photography bans in religious sites.

 

 

The best gear for travel photography

 

Choosing the best gear for travel photography means balancing performance, durability, and portability. Here's a breakdown of what you should consider packing as a beginner:

 

Best cameras for travel photography

Compact mirrorless cameras are now a top choice among professional and beginner photographers. They offer compact size without sacrificing professional features. Here are a few standout options:

1. Fujifilm X-T5. Lightweight with excellent image quality and film simulation features.
2. Sony Alpha a7 IV. A full-frame powerhouse with advanced autofocus and video capabilities.
3. Canon EOS R8. A strong entry-level full-frame option for high-resolution travel shots.

These are among the best cameras for travel photography because they offer superior image quality while remaining compact enough for daily travel.

 

Versatile lenses

For beginners, a versatile 24–70 mm f/2.8 zoom covers everything from wide-angle vistas to portraits, while a fast 35 mm f/1.8 prime excels in low-light and street scenes. As your skills (and itinerary) expand, build a travel-ready lens kit that balances scope and portability: a 16–35 mm wide-angle for landscapes and architecture, the trusty 24–70 mm for everyday flexibility, and a 70–200 mm telephoto zoom to bring distant wildlife or compressed cityscapes closer.

To round out your creative arsenal, you might also pack:

• Ultra-wide fisheye—dramatic, curving distortions for unique perspectives;
• Macro lens—crisp, close-up detail of flora, food, or textures;
• Tilt-shift lens—perspective correction and miniature effects in urban settings;
• Fast prime—wide aperture for atmospheric, low-light street shots;
• All-in-one zoom (18–300 mm)—space-saving versatility when you can carry only one lens.

 

Accessories to enhance workflow

Enhance your travel photography workflow with these essential accessories:

• Versatile camera bag. Protect gear and organize efficiently;
• Lightweight tripod. Ensure stability for sharp images;
• High-capacity memory cards. Capture more without interruption;
• Spare batteries. Extend shooting time in remote locations;
• Portable hard drive. Backup photos securely on-the-go;
• Remote shutter release. Minimize camera shake for crisp shots;
• Polarizing filter. Reduce glare and enhance colors;
• Cleaning kit. Maintain equipment for optimal performance.

 

 

How to take care of your travel photography gear during trips

 

Protecting your investment in travel photography gear is essential, especially when facing varied climates and rugged terrains.

 

Weatherproof your equipment

Protect your gear from the elements with quality rain covers and dust-proof cases. While weather-sealed cameras like the Canon 5D Mark IV offer protection, caution is still necessary. Consider these tips:

• Use silica gel packets to combat humidity;
• Wrap gear in microfiber cloths for added protection;
• Acclimate equipment gradually in temperature extremes;
• Keep spare dry bags for sudden weather changes;
• Invest in waterproof camera straps for added security.

 

Routine cleaning

Maintaining your travel photography gear requires a consistent cleaning routine. Implement these techniques for optimal performance:

• Use microfiber cloths to gently remove smudges from lenses;
• Dislodge dust from sensors with a rocket blower;
• Clean camera bodies carefully, avoiding buttons;
• Apply lens cleaner sparingly for stubborn marks;
• Inspect and clean lens contacts for reliable connections.

 

Smart packing and transport

Invest in a padded camera bag to shield your gear from impacts. Always carry essential equipment as hand luggage when flying. Avoid exposing gear to extreme temperatures and use hotel safes for secure storage during exploration.

 

Conclusion

Starting a career or hobby in travel photography demands more than a love for travel and visuals—it requires the right gear, thoughtful preparation, and ongoing care. From choosing the best cameras for travel photography to discovering new travel photography hotspots, every step of your journey adds to your visual storytelling toolbox. As you land more travel photography jobs, this article's foundational habits will continue to support your success.

 

If you were given a camera as a gift at Christmas or have just decided to treat yourself so you can learn a new skill, you're probably wondering where to start with your new kit. One of the best ways to improve and learn how to use your new camera is to actually get out and use it but we thought it would also be helpful to have a page where photography beginners can find all of our introductory tutorials in one place. So, below you'll find all our beginner photography tutorials written to-date but do also keep an eye on our techniques and features sections as new tutorials are added regularly. 

 

Learn what basic camera settings can help you freeze movement. 

  Digital Camera Settings 

• The Absolute Beginner Guide To Camera Preset Shooting Modes
• What Are Drive Modes?
• Beginner's Guide To Geotagging
• Beginner's Guide To White Balance Mode
• Introduction To Metering Modes
• Quick Beginner Tips About Focus Lock
• Digital Zoom: A Beginner's Guide

 

Learn the basics of aperture. 

  Understanding Exposure

• Creative Aperture / Depth Of Field
• Beginner's Tips: How To Make A Manual Exposure
• Beginner's Introduction To Depth Of Field
• Beginner's Tips: Shutters and Apertures Anyone?
• Beginner's Tips: How To Use ISO
• Beginner's Guide To DSLR Photography: Creative Apertures

 

 

  Taking The Shot

• Essential Beginner Photography Tips: Think About Your Focus
• Creative Children Portraits On A Budget
• Panoramas For Beginners
• Beginner's Tips - How To Capture Motion In Your Images
• How To Make Sure Your Subject Is The Main Point Of Interest
• 5 Tips For Someone New To Portrait Photography
• Beginner's Guide To Sunrise Photography
• Ten Top Tips To Teach Photography Newbies
• Beginner Wildlife Photography Tips
• Beginner Street Photography Tips
• Beginner's Guide On Photographing Children
• Beginner's Guide To Photo Composition
• Understanding Lenses And Focal Lengths

 

 

Seasonal Tutorials 

• Snow Photography Tips For Beginners
• Beginner's Tips For Christmas Photography
• Tips On Using Your Compact Camera At Christmas

 

Learn the basics of lighting objects.

Basic Lighting Tips

• Beginner's Guide to Light Part One
• Beginner's Guide To Light - Part Two
• Beginner's Introduction To Built-In Flash

   

You've read the technique now share your related photos for the chance to win prizes: Photo Month Forum Competition  

 

We're a bit off from Spring but that doesn't mean you can't photograph flowers as florists and supermarkets will be bursting with interesting flowers that you can photograph in your own home. To get you started, we've put together quick, basic and helpful tips that will aid you in creating a simple still life set-up at home so you can begin capturing floral themed images. 

 

1. Simple Backgrounds 

Flowers can look great when simply lit by sunlight. However, if you're working indoors next to a window they often look out onto gardens, streets and other distracting objects which don't make great backgrounds and can spoil the shot. You can, of course, remove the background with editing software but by simply placing a plain object behind your subject you'll save yourself a lot of time. A simple piece of card or cloth will work just fine.

 

 

2. Don't Block Too Much Light 

You have to be careful where you place your new background as it can block the sun but by holding it or, if you can, getting someone else to hold it, the background can be moved around while you look through the viewfinder to see what position works the best. The trick is to move it as high up behind the object without any sun being shielded. Don't position the object you're photographing too close to the background either as no light will be able to get to it. If you enjoy doing these sort of photos you could even create a purpose-built set up that could be used again and again for indoor still life shots.

If you have to position your camera/background so some of the window creeps in at the top don't worry; you can crop it out later when you get your image onto the computer. 

 

3. Shutter Speeds & F-Stops 

When holding the flower take care with your shutter speed as going too slow will result in shake and as you're working with direct light, going too slow will leave you with a shot that's over-exposed. Don't use a too wider aperture as the petals towards the front and back of the image will start to lose focus. Try starting with f/8 and reduce/increase from there.

 

You've read the technique now share your related photos for the chance to win prizes: Photo Month Forum Competition

 

“Photo North festival has something magical - this may sound like a cliche but it's different to other photography festivals. There is an atmosphere of equality, informality and mutual support and of course, a great programme of exhibitions and talks.” Visitor

 

Credit: Anne Worthington/Photo North Festival

From the series, Young Skins

 

Photo North Festival is back.

 

World renowned and emerging artists prepare to exhibit at Photo North Festival #7, 13-15 March 2026, The Carriageworks Theatre, Millennium Square, Leeds, UK.

 

As the winter ebbs away, the photography industry prepares to shine on the historically proud and culturally vibrant city of Leeds for the seventh edition of Photo North Festival.

Exhibitions by legends of the profession will be on display alongside up and coming photographers against a backdrop of talks, competitions, portfolio reviews, workshops, networking, screenings, book singings, food & drink and more…

 

EXHIBITIONS AND ARTISTS HIGHLIGHTS

 

The Leeds International African Arts Festival (LIAAF)

Guest curators LIAAF are bringing their vibrant celebration of African photography to the festival with an exhibition themed Earthwise- An Exhibition of Creativity, Community Reflections and Renewal, featuring multiple photographic artists including Arteh Odjidja, Tobi Dosumu and Ruth Agbolade.

 

Credit: Soulla Petrou/Photo North Festival

Sophie Ellis-Bextor

 

REWIND by Soulla Petrou

Rewind is a photobook by award-winning photographer Soulla Petrou, showcasing 15 years of work in the UK music scene from 1994 to 2009. Shot mainly on film, it captures the raw energy of a defining era in club and youth culture. ?? images will be exhibited from the book including a pre-famous Gerri Halliwel, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Damon Albarn.

 

Jaywick Sands Happy Club by David J Shaw

Jaywick, Essex, is a village that sits within the constituency of the leader of Reform UK MP Nigel Farage, and will be heavily affected by climate change-related sea level rise. The village has an infamous reputation as ‘Britain’s most deprived area’ with many journalists and YouTuber content creators regularly coming to the village to continue this portrayal.  Made closely with the people the images represent, Jaywick Sands Happy Club aims to reframe the narrative of the village by providing a balanced view of a community in the UK that faces challenges that are echoed internationally.

 

This is Also Motherhood by Carolyn Mendelsohn and the Maternal Mental Health Alliance

Portraits of Mental Health, Strength and Survival. This exhibition reveals the often-hidden realities of motherhood and maternal mental health through portrait photography, still life, and audio. Created by artist Carolyn Mendelsohn in collaboration with 10 women with lived experience. It invites us to look, listen and understand.

 

Credit: Joanne Coates/Photo North Festival

From the series, Greenvoe and the Anti-Idyll

 

Greenvoe and the Anti-Idyll by Joanne Coates

This body of work draws deeply from the poetic vision of George Mackay Brown, particularly his novel Greenvoe, exploring the enduring tensions between progress and preservation in rural island life. Through photography, Coates explores the changing landscapes of Orkney—both physical and cultural—by leaning into the notion of the anti-idyll: the disruption of the pastoral dream and the confrontation with modernity on the margins.

Gurushots global community will host their Art of Photography and Street Photographer of the Year photo-challenge winners. 

 

Smoke and Mirrors by Seamus Murphy

Smoke and Mirrors is a powerful photographic exhibition by award-winning photojournalist Seamus Murphy, featuring an extended photo essay centred on the West Bank city of Nablus. Captured over two periods of time, the first in 2004 during the second intifada while working on the acclaimed Palestinian feature film Paradise Now. This commission allowed Murphy to explore how the carefully staged scenes on the film set often echoed the real-life drama and rituals playing out on the streets of Nablus. The second are photographs from spring 2025, connected by stories from 2004  which reflect on the ongoing realities of occupation and the strength and endurance of the Palestinian people. 

 

Credit: Mike Goldwater/Photo North festival

Tombstoning from Ramsgate east pier. From the series, ISLAND

 

ISLAND by Mike Goldwater

ISLAND is a documentary project about the Isle of Thanet, at the eastern tip of Kent. Thanet, once an island cut off from the mainland by the River Wantsum, is a place of deep history, rich ecologies and shifting human tides. The photographs pay tribute to the beauty, challenge and unique character of this special place. The photographs for ISLAND were taken between 2019 and 2024.

 

Ian Parry Photojournalism Grant

A presentation of work by the 2025 recipient of the Ian Parry Grant, Omar Ashtawy, who is living and working in Gaza. The Ian Parry Photojournalism Grant supports young and emerging photographers as they embark on their career.

 

FOUNDERS

 

Festival co-founder & curator, Peter Dench, says: ‘We recognise people are passionate about photography. Photo North Festival aims to introduce or advance understanding of the medium through our programme of exhibitions - to inspire and engage debate. We have one perfect venue, with headline events and renowned photographers confirmed and the list is growing. The creativity in planning the festival format, talks and screenings is something unique to offer people in the north of England and beyond.’

Sharon Price, co-founder & curator, says: ‘We’ve chosen thought-provoking works that provide relevant social commentary on some quite hard-hitting issues. We also have the beautiful and the poignant, that will appeal not only to enthusiasts seeking to be challenged, but also to those seeking a feast for the senses.’ 

Sharon and Peter have secured the sensational line up to deliver a thought-provoking, lively and inclusive festival that will appeal to the professional photographer, photo-enthusiast, keen amateur and anyone who wishes to engage with the timeless appeal of the medium.

Once again, Photo North Festival promises to be one of the most exciting and engaging European photo events.

13-15 March 2026 -  The Carriageworks Theatre, Millennium Square, Leeds UK.

 For more information about the Photo North Festival, please visit the event website.

Buying a monitor for photo editing feels a lot like reading the back of a memory card package: numbers everywhere, most of them meaningless without context, and manufacturers betting you won't ask follow-up questions. The difference is that a memory card mistake costs you convenience, while a monitor mistake costs you accurate color judgment on every image you edit. Here's what you need to know.

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The NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 is Nikon’s latest attempt at the do-it-all full frame zoom that stays small, light, and relatively cheap. If a single lens lives on the camera most days, this one raises a very specific question: how much performance do you give up to get that kind of range in such a lightweight package?

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Let’s explore the often-overlooked significance of editing in photography and how it transforms raw images into compelling visual stories. We will break down the two stages of editing and provide examples that highlight the creative process involved in crafting mood and atmosphere.

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Light distance is the quiet setting that can wreck an otherwise solid portrait in minutes. Move a light a little, and the subject looks fine while the background suddenly turns muddy, or the exposure slides off without an obvious reason.

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The Canon EOS R6 Mark III sits in that uncomfortable spot where the spec sheet looks like an easy “yes,” but real use can still surprise you. If you shoot fast subjects, record serious video, or expect one body to cover both without excuses, the R6 Mark III is the kind of camera you want judged by what it does under pressure.

Coming to you from Christopher Frost, this careful video puts the Canon EOS R6 Mark...

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Gear advice gets loud when landscapes get quiet, and the loudest claim is that a superzoom can’t handle “serious” work. That idea pushes you into swapping lenses, second-guessing focal lengths, and leaving shots behind when the weather turns awkward.

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Glass – we look through it or drink out of it every day, but rarely look upon it as a subject for photography. The equipment you need will vary as much as the subject you're shooting, but usually, a long lens (and tripod) are good for the best results.

 

1. Focus On Glass Objects

Photo © Markus Pettersson

 

With glass as a subject, there are many ways to shoot or light it. I took a wine glass full of white wine, and simply put it on a window sill, the inverted image of some trees outside the window lifted the simple composition and made the glass more interesting. 

To photograph glass indoors, it always looks best lit through the glass, I stood a lightbox on its side and placed a glass sheet in front of it – I actually used an old fish tank, this allowed the glasses to be lit from below and behind all with the same light source, to bring out the shape by highlighting the edges of the glasses. A good way of really emphasising the edges is by bringing dark panels in at the sides, which reflect and emphasise the shape still further.

 

2. Turn Your Attention To Glass In Buildings And Windows

Whether we photograph from the inside of the building through the glass, or from the outside, capturing reflections, shooting glass is often about simplifying.
 

Stained Glass Windows 

 

Stained glass windows in churches make a great subject, but people often fall into a couple of easy mistakes. Firstly they try to get all the window, including all the surrounding stonework in, and secondly, they stand too close.

Trying to get too much in the shot typically results in too much small detail, failing to bring across the real detail within the window. The surrounding area of dark stone usually records no detail, and by affecting the meter reading also causes blown-out highlights in the window. Standing near the window and pointing the lens up to get the whole window in creates converging verticals which need too much adjustment later in Photoshop.

I try to find the element, pattern or scene in the window that I find appealing, and by using a long lens, from as far back in the church as I can get, point the camera up as little as possible. These techniques make metering easier (although if the window has a few clear areas, you might need to use -1/3rd stop compensation to avoid losing detail in those); and will minimise converging verticals. I have used up to a 400mm lens at the far end of a church for window details. If it is important for you to keep detail in the surrounding stonework, you may find it necessary to bracket exposures and combine them using HDR software for the best results.

With stained glass, the weather makes a big difference too; a sunny day with the sun streaming in the window is about as bad as it gets – the best time for stained glass is on an overcast day when the shadows of the protective mesh that is so often fitted outside do not show. If the sun is shining through the window, try shooting the abstract patterns of light that the sun creates.
 

Office Blocks 

 

Windows in modern office blocks can reflect the most amazing reflections and abstract patterns. Again, it's not necessary to get the whole building in the shot, in fact, it often works well when juxtaposing two adjacent buildings of slightly different styles. Try a longish lens to help isolate detail, a 70–200mm would be ideal.

 

Rainy Days

 

Another technique for glass could be shooting through a window on a rainy day when the raindrops create a pattern in their own right. As an added dimension, try to get something appropriate through the window, as it can give a feeling of what you'd like to be doing if it wasn't raining.

Glass in all its forms can clearly make for an interesting and varied subject, with no real limitations – so get out and give it a go.
 

You've read the technique now share your related photos for the chance to win prizes: Photo Month Forum Competition

Wireless charging usually involves a trade-off. You get the convenience of simply dropping your phone onto a pad, but you sacrifice speed. MagSafe made things better with magnetic alignment, but even at 15 W, it felt like a compromise compared to plugging in a cable. The new Qi2.2 standard changes that equation, and Anker's Prime Wireless Charging Station represents one of the most compelling implementations I've used. At $149.99, this isn't an impulse purchase. But after a week of daily use charging my iPhone 17 Pro Max, AirPods Pro, and Apple Watch Ultra 3, I'm convinced the price is justified for anyone who values both speed and portability in their charging setup.

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In a report from the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA), the global camera market was shown to have grown steadily in 2025, with shipments rising 6.6% and overall value climbing close to $20bn. The fastest-growing category was fixed-lens cameras, which surged 30% in volume and 49% in value, now making up more than a quarter of all new cameras shipped worldwide. This reflected rising demand for premium compacts and high-end fixed-lens models that combine portability with advanced specifications, driving higher average prices and reshaping the market mix. MPB noted that fewer entry-level releases and more selective buying reinforced the importance of trusted used platforms, while looking ahead to 2026 with expectations of continued single-digit growth across both cameras and lenses.

 

From MPB:

 

• Global camera shipments grew 6.6% in 2025, with total market value growing by 4% to just under $20bn
• Fixed-lens cameras emerged as the fastest-growing segment, now accounting for just over a quarter of all new cameras shipped globally
• Shifting product mix and fewer entry-level model releases are reinforcing the role of accessible, circular routes to high-quality equipment

 

New data from the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA) shows the global new camera market continued its steady growth trajectory in 2025, with unit shipments growing 6.6% year-on-year while overall market value grew to just under $20bn.

In 2025, volumes of Digital Interchangeable Lens Cameras (DILC), including mirrorless and DSLR models, increased by around 6%, while lens volumes grew by approximately 3%. Despite sustained underlying demand throughout the year, value within the interchangeable-lens segment remained broadly flat, as pricing dynamics in some markets offset volume gains.

Against this backdrop, fixed-lens (compact) cameras emerged as the standout growth story of 2025. CIPA data shows compact camera shipments increased sharply by 30% year-on-year, with market value rising at an even greater pace of 49%. Fixed-lens cameras now account for 26% of all new cameras shipped globally.

This growth reflects rising demand for premium fixed-lens cameras that combine advanced specifications with highly portable form factors.  From high-end compacts to APS-C and medium-format fixed-lens models, these cameras offer flexibility and performance that complement interchangeable-lens systems rather than replacing them. The premium nature of many new fixed-lens models has also driven higher average selling prices in this category, reinforcing their growing importance within the overall camera market.

Across the wider market, product mix played an increasingly important role in shaping performance in 2025. Mirrorless camera volumes continued to grow, with shifts in model mix influencing how value accumulated across the category. MPB analysis suggests this reflects fewer entry-level releases and more considered purchasing decisions, reinforcing the importance of trusted used platforms in broadening access to high-quality equipment.

Looking ahead to 2026, MPB expects the new camera market to continue delivering single-digit year-on-year growth in both volume and value, supported by continued demand across both cameras and lenses. Premium fixed-lens cameras are expected to remain an important growth driver, complementing ongoing strength in interchangeable lens systems and reinforcing the role of trusted used platforms for photographers seeking flexibility and value.

Commenting on the data, Matt Barker, CEO of MPB, said:

“2025 was another strong year for the camera market, with broad-based growth across mirrorless cameras, premium lenses and fixed-lens `models, which have become an increasingly important part of the category. We continue to see content creator demand evolve, with kitbags expanding to include a wider range of specialist and premium equipment.”

“This evolution of demand underpins the importance of platforms like MPB. By offering access across categories and price points, we help creators build the kitbags they need to compete in today’s creator economy, without compromising on quality or performance.”

For more information, please visit the MPB website.

When I first heard about the Dwarf Mini Smart Telescope, I have to admit I was skeptical. A smart telescope you can carry in a pocket (albeit a large pocket like a photographer's vest), plop down, and produce decent astrophotos seemed like a stretch. Smart telescopes have certainly evolved over the last few years, and I've reviewed a few of them.

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In January, we asked you to hit the 'like' button on your favourite 2025 POTW images to help us choose our 'Photo of the Year.' Now the votes have been counted, and we’re pleased to reveal that ZenTony with the image ‘Pensive' takes the title of 'Photo of the Year.' Congratulations!

89 'likes' were awarded to the stunning shot. The ePHOTOzine team noted, “The image captures a man with a contemplative expression and subtle, engaging presence. This capture stands out for its superb use of light and monochrome finish, with simplicity and depth allowing emotions and textures to shine through.” We crowned it our 'Photo of the Week' in February 2025. 

 "A superb monochrome portrait with excellent use of light and a contemplative expression." - ePHOTOzine. 

As well as the 'Photo of the Year' title, Tony wins a Samsung Portable 1TB SSD T7 Shield from our 'Photo of the Week' supporter, Samsung. 

The competition now starts again. All 'Photo of the Week' winners from 2026 will be included. Be sure to upload your photos for a chance to win! Once the year ends, we'll compile a list of 52 winners in our forum. Then, we ask you to cast your votes.

Thank you to everyone who voted, our supporter Samsung, and those who continue to upload incredible photos to our Gallery.

Photography increasingly measures its progress through internal states rather than visible change. The language of self-care feels ethical and mature, but it quietly removes the ability to tell whether the work itself is improving.

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Take a walk around your town or local park and you'll soon find a statue or monument. They don't move, or complain so are a perfect subject for a photographer and most are so well sculptured that you have the opportunity to shoot several varied photographs of them.

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1. Gear Suggestions

Unless you're a particular fan of the carvings that decorate the tops of churches you'll only need a standard zoom lens which means this is a project you can do with your DSLR or compact camera. If you want a little bit more stability take a tripod along but you can quite happily work hand-held.

 

2 The Statue's Position

When you come across a statue the first thing you should do is take a walk around it to look at the angle. As most statues have a dominating position raised up on plinths, shots of statues can often end up looking a little distorted due to the low angle you shoot from. To combat this just stand further back and use a longer focal length to fill the frame. To improve your shot further, if there are steps or a wall nearby stand on them to give you more height or if you don't mind the trial and error approach you could always put your camera up above your head and take your photo - you may get some surprisingly good results.

 

 

3. Think About Backgrounds

As well as looking for the right angle to photograph the statue pay attention to the background as this can change the overall look of the image. A messy background's distracting while a bright sky can affect the meter reading and leave you with a silhouetted statue. Metering from a darker part of the scene can wash the sky out completely so try using exposure compensation if you find metering to be a problem. If you've found an angle you just have to photograph but the background's spoiling the shot, use a wider aperture to throw the background out of focus.

 

4. Working In Shade

If your statue's in a shaded area, such as under trees, make sure your flash is off as this will blast light into the scene and all the shadows which emphasis the statue's shape will be lost. You may need to use a slightly longer shutter speed so make sure you hold your camera steady or pop it on a tripod to prevent camera shake.

 

5. Other Locations

When you've walked the length of your town searching for statues there are plenty of sculpture parks across the UK that give you the opportunity to capture several interesting pieces of art in one location.

 

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Highlight control in Lightroom is where a clean edit either holds together or falls apart. If skies keep turning chalky or faces get shiny fast, the fix is often less about contrast and more about what you do with the brightest tones.

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A superb black and white shot of the River Clyde, captured by andymcdonald and titled Bells Bridge and SEC Campus, has picked up our 'Photo of the Week' award.

The image shows Bells Bridge leading over to the SEC Campus in Glasgow, where you can see the Armadillo and the OVO Hydro. It uses a simple mono treatment to show off the shapes and clean lines of the buildings against the dark sky. The light catches the straight lines of the bridge and the curved roofs of the campus really well, giving it an almost sci-fi feel. By taking away the colour, andymcdonald has turned this city scene into something very moody and modern.

It is a lovely piece of work that shows how good framing and contrast can make urban architecture look amazing.

Every Photo of the Week (POTW) winner will be rewarded with a Samsung 128GB PRO Plus microSDXC memory card with SD adapter, providing top-tier storage for all your creative needs across multiple devices. But that's not all! In January 2026, we’ll crown our 2025 Photo of the Year winner, who will take home the ultimate prize of a Samsung Portable 1TB SSD T7 Shield, courtesy of Samsung. It’s time to shoot, submit, and showcase your best work for a chance to win these incredible rewards!