The Camera Store Blog

Using Blurred Backgrounds to add Drama to your Fall Images
Tip #1: Using a long lens to blur and isolate.
When I am working in areas where a background could be a distraction, if it is in focus, I will often use a long lens to blur and isolate the subject. I try to use a focal length of 300-500mm and get as close as possible while not stressing wildlife. This will result in allowing the viewer to see what is behind the subject while not making it a distraction. This blurring will help tell a story of the subject in its environment. I like to select f8 to give just the right amount of detail when using a long lens.
When I am working in areas where a background could be a distraction, if it is in focus, I will often use a long lens to blur and isolate the subject. I try to use a focal length of 300-500mm and get as close as possible while not stressing wildlife. This will result in allowing the viewer to see what is behind the subject while not making it a distraction. This blurring will help tell a story of the subject in its environment. I like to select f8 to give just the right amount of detail when using a long lens.

A Beginner's Guide To Macro Photography: Seven Tips To Get You Started
Macro photography offers a fascinating glimpse into the miniature world, allowing novice photographers to explore the intricate details of subjects up close. With a Sony Alpha camera and lens that can achieve close focus like the Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G, you can delve into this form of photography that's filled with endless opportunities. Want some guidance to get you started on the right path? We've got seven essential steps to get you started in macro photography.

What’s In My Bag: A Trio Of Prime Lenses For Macro And More
Sony Artisan Caroline Jensen is a fine art floral photographer and flower farmer. Her approach to photography is less about the work created, and more about the feeling while creating it. She views her botanical photography as therapeutic in many ways, and the connection between any form of photography and stress relief is a big part of her work. Jensen is a long-time Sony Alpha user and we connected with her to learn more about the specific gear she uses to make her beautiful fine art floral images. Keep reading as she shares what’s in her bag.

Todd Korol and the Sony Alpha 1
Todd Korol has expertly navigated the digital camera revolution, witnessing firsthand the transformation of his craft. We recently asked him to produce a reel showcasing Sony's influence on his work. In under a minute, Todd produced an electrifying video that encapsulates the energy and dynamism he brings to his photography.

OM System OM-1 Mark II Hands On Review
Let me introduce one of the most rugged but powerful little cameras. I'm talking about the OM Systems OM-1 Mark II, the ultimate companion for outdoor adventurers and professional photographers. This compact powerhouse boasts added RAM, updated algorithms, and a couple of other minor but oh-so-helpful updates. If you're ready to capture some breathtaking shots without breaking the bank, buckle up and get ready to be wowed by the OM-1 Mark II.

Nature’s Spectacle: Birding Adventures with the Sony Alpha 9 III
Joe Tavares is an emerging wildlife and birding photographer, having captured mesmerizing, natural shots across the globe; everything from eagles in Japan to lions in Africa.

Traditions Through the Lens: Capturing The Indigenous Spirit
Dive into a vibrant day of photography at Traditions Through the Lens: Capturing The Indigenous Spirit by Curiosity Refresh, where you'll immerse ...

New Canon RF 28-70mm f2.8 IS STM - Versatility Meets Creativity
Canon is bringing more versatility to your creativity with the new Canon RF 28-70mm f2.8 IS STM lens! Designed to enhance the creative possibilities for photographers, content creators, and everyday users, this new all-day, go-anywhere lens is excellent for travel, everyday moments and striking portraits.

RØDE Creator of the Year Awards
RØDE has announced the debut of an all-new competition for creatives, the RØDE Creator of the Year Awards! This one-of-a-kind competition aims to celebrate the next generation of content creators like you - sharing your work with the world and giving you the chance to win a share in $250,000 (USD) cash and over $100,000 (USD) in prizes! The deadline to enter is September 30th, 2024, so don't wait, jump on this exhilarating opportunity!

Nikon's Newest Fast & Affordable Nikkor Z Lens
A classically captivating focal length meets breathtaking creativity with Nikon's newest lens, the Nikkor Z 50mm f1.4! This wide, bright and large aperture, lightweight prime lens is beautifully compact and exceptionally versatile, making it the perfect lens for portraits, landscapes, street snaps, travel, still life and more! Available in late September for $679.95, photographers and videographers will be jumping to pre-order this stunning, new lens.

NEW SIGMA Art 28-105mm F/2.8 DG DN for Mirrorless Cameras
The new SIGMA 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN | Art stands out as more than just an ordinary zoom lens. Boasting a versatile focal range from wide-angle to medium telephoto and maintaining a bright F2.8 aperture across the entire range, this full-frame mirrorless lens excels with remarkable optical performance and exceptional build quality. It’s equipped with professional-grade features that make it one of the most adaptable lenses available for mirrorless systems.

Highly Anticipated Sony FE 85mm F1.4 G Master II
We've been asking, and Sony is delivering! Sony has announced the highly anticipated FE 85mm F1.4 GM II! The second generation of the beloved FE 85mm F1.4 GM, this new lens builds off its predecessor with high resolution, smooth bokeh, and fast AF in a superbly lightweight and compact body. As a large-aperture, telephoto prime, this lens is perfect for portraiture, weddings, travel, and cinematic video, but of course, our TCSTV Team has to test it out! Check out all the amazing features and what Dave thinks of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II's improved optics and autofocus.