Photography News

The photography industry has entered 2026 at a fascinating inflection point. What follows are 11 predictions for where the industry is headed, covering hardware, software, legal frameworks, and market dynamics. Some of these trends are already visible if you know where to look; others represent logical conclusions from forces already in motion.

[ Read More ]

It seems that there are new iterations of cameras released almost every second week—some new, and some with slight tweaks—but what happens when a camera system itself is unique? How can this be updated and improved from what is already quite niche? Let’s take a look.

[ Read More ]

 

Nikon has introduced the NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 zoom lens to its full-frame Z series, a lightweight and versatile option for photographers and creators in everyday use. With a wide focal range that covers landscapes, portraits, and close-up shots, this lens is designed to be easy to carry while still delivering sharp detail and smooth autofocus. Its compact build makes it a practical travel companion, and its budget-friendly price point opens up full-frame creativity to more users.

Sales start on 22 January 2026 with a recommended retail price of £529 in the UK and €619 in ROI.

 

From Nikon:

Nikon adds the highly versatile NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 zoom lens to its range of Nikon Z full-frame lenses. With its lightweight build, flexible wide-angle to mid-telephoto reach, and superb close-up performance, this travel-friendly full-frame zoom lens inspires discovery. Easy to carry and to handle, it's perfect for photographers and content creators who want to explore their creative potential.

The NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 makes a brilliant travel companion and a great everyday muse. Photos or video, the 24-105mm focal-length range allows plenty of space for experimenting with framing and composition, while the smooth, fast autofocus helps to get the best out of every shot. Sharp close-up performance encourages new subjects and perspectives: users can capture beautifully balanced detail shots thanks to a short minimum focus distance at both ends of the zoom range and a 0.5x reproduction ratio.

Lightweight and sealed for comfortable portability, the NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 is a great walkaround lens: perfect whether capturing the vibe of a destination on a trip away or getting in valuable daily practice. It balances beautifully with smaller full-frame Z cameras like the Z5II, creating a compact kit that's ready to go whenever the creative urge calls.

Dirk Jasper, Product Manager at Nikon Europe, comments: "With the NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 we're taking another step towards making dynamic full-frame photography attainable for even more people. If you're just starting out on your full-frame journey, this versatile, budget-friendly zoom lens delivers the flexibility and the image quality you need to try new ideas and expand your creativity with confidence."

 

[HOOK]position_1[/HOOK]

 

Summary of key features

Versatile 24-105mm focal-length range: the broad wide-angle to medium-telephoto focal-length range is great for everything from landscapes and cityscapes to interiors, portraits, detail shots, and video.

Lightweight and easy to carry: this full-frame zoom lens weighs just 350 g (approx.). When paired with the Z5II full-frame camera, the complete kit totals only 1050 g (approx.).

Superb close-up performance: a 0.5x reproduction ratio enables close-up shots with nicely balanced background elements. The minimum focus distance is just 0.2 m at 24mm, and 0.28 m at 105mm.

Fast, quiet autofocus: a high-speed stepping motor (STM) powers smooth, whisper-quiet AF. It performs brilliantly with a Z camera's subject detection, and focusing sounds won't ruin video footage.

Customisable control ring: for the smooth, silent adjustment of key settings. Easily switch to manual focus, adjust ISO, or make precise aperture adjustments to create a natural shift in brightness when shooting video.

Travel partner: sealing helps keep out dust and drips, for worry-free portability.

New HB-93B bayonet lens hood: Available as an optional accessory. Minimises stray light and reduces flare.

Budget-friendly: the NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 zoom lens will be available solo and in kits with selected camera bodies (details to be found with your local Nikon authorised dealer or on local Nikon pages).

For more information, please visit the Nikon website.

When you first think of a snowy day captured in an image, black & whites tones are probably not what first spring to mind. However, in the right conditions and with the right subjects,  working in monochrome on snowy days can work well and give you a collection of winter images that are rather eye-catching. To get you thinking more about mono, here's 5 tips to get you started on your journey into black & white snow photography. 

 

Photo by David Clapp

 

1. The Weather Matters

When skies aren't a brilliant blue, turn your attention to the black & white medium as when your shot has a heavy snow-filled sky in it, your image will have much more punch to it if captured in black & white. Mist can help to separate foreground detail from background too. Make sure you wrap up in severe cold weather.

 

2. Strong Shapes Are A Must

As with most forms of black & white photography, you need strong, recognisable shapes in your shot for it to work. The skeletal trees of winter create interesting shapes which are perfect for snow-themed black & white landscapes. Livestock, rock formations and stone walls all work well as foreground interest, too.

 

3. Foreground Interest Is Important

If you just have a blanket of white snow, generally your image won't really work as there won't be any depth to it. The reason we say 'generally', however is because a blanket of snow can work in abstract images where you just have one main focus point that's starkly different to the pale snow (as shown in David's shot above). Find something that will lead the eye through the image or if there's nothing to guide the eye, just ensure there's at least one part of the foreground that adds texture and interest to your shot. 

 

4. Converting To Black & White 

There's always the option to take your shots in colour then convert them when back home in front of your computer. When converting images to black & white it's important to pay attention to the colour channels, as John Gravett explained in a previous article where he said: "Look at each of the red, green and blue colour channels to see which gives the best effect. Often, if you have a broad landscape with a blue sky, the red channel will darken the sky and give the picture real impact, it will also have the benefit of cutting any distant haze in the picture."

 

5. Stay Warm And Safe

This one isn't really about your photos but your safety. It will be bitterly cold when snowing so don't spend too long outside and always dress appropriately. Tell people where you are going and don't put yourself in danger for the sake of the perfect image. 

As a professional photographer, I am one of those people who carry at least one camera with me all the time. Because of this, I always bring a two-bag combo—a sling bag and a backpack—when shooting on location or traveling around. Having an additional sling bag with me offers immediate accessibility to things I need easily, while storing all the backups on my back, and that translates to higher efficiency when working. While I understand there is no such thing as a perfect bag, I do invest a lot of time in searching for a bag that is capable of serving multiple purposes when I need them in a certain way.

[ Read More ]

A radial mask in Lightroom can fix the kind of “almost” photo that keeps bothering you, where the light is close but not landing where the eye should go. If you rely on Lightroom to shape mood, depth, and attention, this tool changes what you can do without making the edit look like an edit.

[ Read More ]

Micro Four Thirds gets dismissed fast, especially when you’re staring at a dark stage and thinking about switching to full frame. This video puts real pressure on that assumption by showing how a smaller system holds up when the lights drop without warning and the job still needs to get done.

[ Read More ]

There is a lot to hate about Samsung's "The Frame" TV, but It's still my favorite TV of all time.

[ Read More ]

Ceilings decide how clean your flash looks in real estate work, and you do not always get a friendly white one. When the ceiling is dark, wood, or simply too high to bounce, a modifier stops being optional and starts being the difference between usable frames and a long edit.

[ Read More ]

When a client asks for raw files, the request can put your deliverables, your editing time, and your reputation on the line. Handle it casually and you risk handing over work that is unfinished, easy to misuse, and hard to control once it leaves your drive.

[ Read More ]

 

Tip 1: Reach For A Long Lens You'll need a telephoto zoom (300-400mm) for capturing frame-filling shots and a tripod is essential. If you have one, fasten on your ball-head but it's not essential. 

 

Tip 2: Know Where All Your Buttons & Functions Are 

Know your equipment well before heading outside as you don't want to be searching for buttons and messing around with settings when you only have seconds to take a shot.
 

Tip 3: Get Closer To Your Subject 

You will need to be quite close to the birds even if you are using a lens with plenty of reach as they are really tiny things and can be easily lost in your background.
 

Tip 4: Keep Hidden When Possible 

Make sure you hide out of sight in either a purpose-built hide or try shooting from your house or from an outbuilding such as a shed.
 

Tip 5: Feed The Birds 

Make sure you have feeders out, particularly at this time of year when food's a little scarce. This will encourage birds to regularly visit your garden for food. 
 

 

Tip 6: Think About Feeder Position 

Place feeders in areas where branches or even ready-made perches you want them to land on are positioned. That way they'll, hopefully, land on the branch in front of your chosen background before going for the food.

  Tip 7: Change Your Props 

Change the style of perch you're using to bring a bit of variety to your shots after a while.
 

Tip 8: Think About Backgrounds 

Hedges make great natural looking backgrounds but don't let the scenery overshadow your subject. For those with fences and walls rather than hedgerows try collecting a few sheets of material that can help disguise it. 
 

Tip 9: Focus Is Key 

Pay attention to the tips of tail feathers as these can become out of focus.
 

Tip 10: Be Patient 

Don't be too eager to hit the shutter button the second a bird lands as they're nervous creatures and it may take them a while to become comfortable with their surroundings.

 

 

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

“Target Practice” by ZenTony has been chosen as our Photo of the Week (POTW) this week on ePHOTOzine.

With its use of focus and framing, this image turns a straightforward subject into something impactful. The central target stands out clearly, while surrounding tones and textures add atmosphere.

The details are clear, and the strong light and shadow create a bold, defined setting. Great composition and timing elevate this ordinary interior into an eye-catching photo. Well done ZenTony – excellent capture.

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!

There's a term in photography that sounds like it belongs in a nature documentary, and in a way, it does. "Chimping" describes the behavior of looking at your camera's LCD screen immediately after taking a photo, and the name supposedly comes from the excited noises photographers used to make when digital cameras first became mainstream. It's also a potentially detrimental habit that can cause you to miss shots.

[ Read More ]

There are things I lived through in 2025 that became larger lessons for my career. Some of them were uncomfortable. Some of them paid off immediately. Some of them took patience. I’m sharing a handful to give you a head start on 2026.

[ Read More ]

Choosing between the Canon EOS R6 Mark III, the EOS R5, and the EOS R5 Mark II is not a spec-sheet game anymore, because all three are fast enough. The real question is which one matches the way you shoot when things get chaotic: action, low light, long video takes, or heavy cropping.

[ Read More ]

Open calls didn’t make photography more open. They simply replaced one gatekeeping system with another, built on paid submissions, administrative rules, and predictable results. And their influence reaches far beyond the photographers who actually apply.

[ Read More ]

DaVinci Resolve is where a lot of “almost there” footage either gets rescued or exposed. This video argues that the difference between amateur and paid work often shows up in a handful of choices you keep repeating, especially once you start shooting log and stop trusting whatever look the camera bakes in.

[ Read More ]

As the sun's still setting before most of us get home from work, now is the perfect time to have a go at night photography. Various types of photography are possible when the nights begin to draw in. Here's our guide to what you can do and what kit you'll need to do it.
 

Photo by David Pritchard

 

Essential Equipment:

 

Tripod

Aside from your camera, a tripod is the single most essential item in night time photography, when low shutter speeds are in use as hand-held photography is virtually impossible. It's a good idea to find a model that's lightweight and compact enough to carry around with ease.

 

Fast Lenses

When it comes to lenses, wide angle is often the way to go - the faster the better. An aperture of at least f/2.8 throughout the entire focal length is recommended as available light will be at a minimum. 

 

Filters, Lens Hoods And Rain Sleeves

A filter is not essential, however a UV filter can be used to protect your lens from the elements. In harsh weather conditions a lens hood can protect the front of your lens from rain while a rain sleeve will protect your camera body.

 

Flash Gun

An additional flash is a useful tool when working outdoors at night, and it's important to find one that's suited to your particular camera. Most flash guns will fit most cameras, but unless it's dedicated it won't work with the camera auto settings and could result in an incorrect exposure.

 

Light Meter

Night photography can be tricky and your camera's built-in metering system may not be accurate enough to get the correct exposure, which is where a light meter will be useful. One that has an illuminated LCD would be best as it'll make viewing easier in low light. Various brands create light meters who have various models which are lightweight, small in design and feature LCD displays.

 

Clothing

Waterproof and warm clothing is essential if you are going to be outdoors during winter for long periods. A waterproof jacket with a hood is ideal. Do wear layers instead of one thick jacket as you can always add or remove items if hot/cold. Wearing a good pair of walking boots and gloves is also a good idea.

 

Remote Shutter Release

Also consider adding a Remote shutter release to your kit. A remote control will activate the shutter release without any need for contact with the camera, eliminating the risk of blur caused by camera movement. Do check that the remote release is compatible with your camera.

Your camera's self-timer can also be used as an alternative, preventing the need for contact at the time of the shutter release.

 

Camera Bag

A weatherproof camera bag will keep your equipment dry and well protected from the elements, and backpacks are generally easier to carry and more comfortable than any other type of bag. Take a look at our review section to find a bag that's suitable for you.

 

Accessories

Depending on where you are planning to go to carry out your photography, a torch might be good idea as some areas will not have the benefit of street lighting. For those who prefer to keep their hands free consider packing a head torch.

If you are going to be outdoors for a while, a flask of hot tea or coffee may be a good idea.

 

Photo by Joshua Waller 

 

What To Photograph:

 

Buildings At Night

Shooting buildings at night can create a very different feel from the way they would look during daylight. Cityscapes are always a good choice, as are churches. Useful equipment for this type of photograph includes: Tripod, flashgun, wide lenses, light meter, torch and filters. Click the following links for tips on shooting buildings at night:

• Advice On Shooting In Towns And Cities At Night
• Photographing Night Time Urban Scenes
• Town / City Night Photography Tips
• Tips On Photographing Buildings At Night
• Photographing Architecture In Singapore

  Moving Cars And Fairground Rides

Moving cars and fairground rides are easy to find and can create some stunning streams of lights and patterns when done after dark. Experiment with different shutter speeds to see what effects can be created.

Useful equipment includes: Tripod, monopod, flashgun, light meter, shutter remote release and warm clothing.

 

Moon And Moonlight

Landscapes need not stop when then sun goes down. Try using the moon as a source of light to produce some dramatic as well as eerie effects. Click here to see the ePHOTOzine guide to photographing the moon. Useful equipment includes: Tripod, telephoto lenses and warm clothing.

 

Night Portraits

Outdoor portaits at night may be slightly more tricky than portraits during the day, but the results can be much more effective. Useful equipment includes: Tripod, light meter, flashgun and warm clothing.

 

Wildlife

A whole new world of wildlife emerges after dark. Disguise yourself in a hide and see what turns up! Useful equipment includes: Tripod, camera trigger, flashgun, hide, warm clothing and a flask.

 

Star Trails

Even though it takes a while, the effort is worth it as the effects captured can be amazing. For more tips, take a look at these tutorials: Photographing star trails part one and two.

A 12-24mm wide angle lens can make a calm shoreline look chaotic if you do not control the foreground. It can also hand you leading lines, texture, and scale in a single frame, if you work it with intention.

[ Read More ]

Sony’s a7 V is being framed as the hybrid body to watch going into 2026, and it’s getting a head-to-head test against the Canon EOS R6 Mark III. If you shoot both stills and video, this matchup hits the exact problems that waste time later: skin tone cleanup, shadow recovery, and how far you can push footage before it turns weird.

[ Read More ]