Photography News

 

 

1. Gear Suggestions

For larger shows pocket a superzoom compact but if you're going to a smaller venue you'll probably be able to take a DSLR in with no issues but do check the venue's rules on camera equipment as some are stricter on what size camera you can take in than others. Whatever camera you take you'll want it to have a good ISO range as you'll be working in very low light situations. When it comes to lens choices, a prime lens around the 50mm mark will serve you well.
 

2. Exposure & Stage Lighting

One of the biggest challenges you'll face at a gig is getting the exposure right under stage lights, as different coloured lights and often harsh backlighting and smoke will all pose problems. You will need to set your camera to its maximum aperture if you can and set the ISO as low as you can while still maintaining a suitable shutter speed under the conditions. Smaller venues where conditions tend to be darker than in arenas will demand higher ISO levels to reduce motion blur and camera shake as using a support is out of the question.
 

3. Focusing Tips

Another point to remember is that autofocus may struggle in low light conditions but to be honest, it will generally be more reliable than focusing manually if your subject is moving and the light levels are low. Spot metering can be useful, particularly if you're shooting a strongly backlit subject, as you'll find at many gigs. Just make sure you adjust your camera's exposure compensation setting to achieve the correct exposure if you choose to work this way.

 

 

4. Flash Or No Flash?

When you're shooting from the crowd, you will often be too far away for flash to be of any use. Also, many people believe that they shouldn't use flash because 'it spoils the atmosphere' but this is a common misconception as if you can get close enough for it to be useful, you can achieve some good results. The key is to ensure that the flash exposure is well-balanced with the ambient light. This will result in exposures with bags of atmosphere, colour and it will also allow you to freeze the action. Of course, it will depend on how appropriate using flash is too. A quiet gig with an acoustic performer may not be the right kind of atmosphere to start blitzing away with flash, plus the venue you're at may have rules on not using flash during performances so it's always worth checking. 
 

5. Shutter Speeds

If you're photographing an acoustic performer sat on a stool, or stood at a microphone, you will be able to get away with shutter speeds that are quite slow. However, try using a shutter speed that equals the focal length of your lens if you don't have image stabilisation, or of at least half the focal length if you do. If the performers are more lively, you will need much faster shutter speeds to freeze the action. 

One final point: Arrive early, get a good spot and don't move. Also, remember that you're supposed to be there to enjoy yourself too!

   

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

 

Canals were once used to transport goods to towns and cities right across the UK and as a result, there are still plenty of waterways running through our city streets. The long canals, bridges and lock gates that once supplied goods now supply ample photography opportunities and as they all have public walkways, you're not going to upset anyone if you spend an hour two with your camera at the side of one.

 

1. Gear Suggestions

When you're heading out of the door make sure you have your wide-angle and telephoto lens with you. A tripod would also be handy if you want to try and smooth the waterfall of water that sometimes flows over the lock gates. You may also want to check you've got your polarising filter as this can help eliminate the problems you get with reflections when photographing water.
 

2. Go Wide 

If you want to include some of the homes, offices and bars in your shot take out your wide-angle lens. You'll be able to capture the urban setting and also exaggerate the length of the canal or any of the longboats that are on it. If the canal's your main point of interest use your telephoto lens to bring the boats, locks or any other background interest to you. You can get a great shot by standing on a bridge over the centre of the canal.
 

3. Look For Locks 

Locks are an attractive feature on the canal so try and focus your attention on one as a boat passes through or slow down your shutter speed and make the water gushing over the lock your focus of the image. If you have a series of lock gates they're perfect for bringing symmetry to your shot.

 

 

4. Leading Lines 

As the canal's a straight line of water you've got several leading lines to help you with your composition. Try framing up so you have the canal entering from one corner, leading the eye into and through the image. It's a great way to guide the viewer to a particular focal point in the city. You can use the bridges that stretch over the canals to frame parts of the city too just watch your exposure and bracket if you need to.
 

5. People Watching 

It's trendy to have a bar or home by the water which gives you the opportunity to include people in your scene. Places such as the Victoria Quays in Sheffield or the more famous Camden Lock have bars, restaurants and apartments surrounding the water and they're often buzzing with activity. Try shooting some candids of people relaxing by the lock or take a walk around, shooting from the hip as you stroll.
 

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

Apple has introduced the iPhone Duo, its first foldable iPhone, pairing a 5.4 in outer display with a 7.6 in folding inner display. Beyond the new form factor, the phone includes dual 48 MP rear cameras, 4K video recording at up to 120 fps, an A20 Pro processor, new photography features that take advantage of the second display, and an updated version of iOS designed around multitasking. 

The iPhone Duo starts at $1,999 with 256 GB of storage. Preorders begin October 16, 2026, with availability starting October 23, 2026.

[Read More]

In December 2007, three small cardboard boxes reached the International Center of Photography in New York holding 126 rolls of 35mm film and roughly 4,500 negatives that had been missing since 1939. Inside was a visual record centered on the Spanish Civil War as seen by Robert Capa, Gerda Taro, and David "Chim" Seymour, three young photographers who helped invent modern war reporting before all three of them were killed on assignment.

[Read More]

Apple has announced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, introducing a new 48 MP Fusion Main camera with variable aperture, expanded manual camera controls, new image-authenticity features, and additional photo and video tools. The phones also introduce the A20 Pro chip, a redesigned thermal system, longer battery life, and iOS 27 with Apple Intelligence and Siri AI. 

[Read More]

Whether you do photography as a hobby or professionally, there are a lot of tools and accessories that make what we do easier, more convenient, or even more foolproof. Sometimes even the simplest tools can be instrumental in how we achieve our shots or, on the other hand, something equally important: how we take care of our camera gear. Whatever these tools are and no matter how simple, we often need to buy them from a physical store or an online source that will take a couple of days to ship.

[Read More]

Sigma just released an 85mm f/1.2 DG Art for L-mount and Sony E-mount, and it lands at £1,299 in the UK or $1,599 in the US. That price sits well under Canon's and Nikon's mirrorless 85mm f/1.2 options, and the Sigma is smaller and lighter than both.

 

[Read More]

© Sigma

 

Sigma has launched a redesigned lens filter lineup featuring anti-reflection surface treatments, slimmer frames, and verified vignetting-free compatibility across all Sigma lenses. The four-model series includes the high-impact WR Ceramic Protector PTC-21, WR Protector + UV PUV-21, standard Protector LPT-21, and WR Circular PL Filter CPL-21.

 

From Sigma:

 

Sigma Corporation (Headquarters: Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa; CEO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the renewal of Sigma's filter series for interchangeable lenses. The entire lineup has been completely redesigned to achieve further performance improvements. Additionally, the design and packaging have been updated to align with Sigma’s new visual identity, introduced in 2025.

Four filter models will be released on November 5th, 2026: the Sigma WR Ceramic Protector PTC-21, a ceramic protector offering exceptional impact resistance; the Sigma WR Protector + UV PUV-21, featuring UV protection and water- and oil-repellent coating; the standard Sigma Protector LPT-21; and the Sigma WR Circular PL Filter CPL-21, a circular polarizing filter with water- and oil-repellent coating.

 

Product Name:

Sigma WR Ceramic Protector PTC-21

Sigma WR Protector + UV PUV-21

Sigma Protector LPT-21

Sigma WR Circular PL Filter CPL-21

Launch: November 5th, 2026

• Product appearance and specifications are subject to change without notice.
• The image shown is the Sigma WR Ceramic Protector PTC-21.

© Sigma

 

Key Features

 

Completely redesigned construction

As part of this renewal, the entire lineup has been redesigned from the ground up to further minimize impact on image quality while enhancing overall usability. Improvements to the surface treatment of the filter frames reduce internal reflections compared to previous models, while an optimized design has enabled a slimmer profile for the large-diameter 95mm and 105mm sizes.

 

New exterior design and packaging

These filters feature an exterior design and packaging aligned with Sigma’s new visual identity, introduced in 2025.

 

Verified compatibility with all Sigma lenses

Compatibility with all Sigma lenses has been fully verified, allowing for worry-free shooting without vignetting, even when using ultra-wide-angle lenses. Despite the slim design, these filters ensure secure lens cap attachment, providing users with peace of mind.

 

 

Product Lineup

 

WR Ceramic Protector PTC-21

67mm / 72mm / 77mm / 82mm / 95mm / 105mm

 

Other 3 Models (WR Protector + UV PUV-21, Protector LPT-21, WR Circular PL Filter CPL-21)

52mm / 55mm / 58mm / 62mm / 67mm / 72mm / 77mm

82mm / 95mm / 105mm

 

For more information, please visit the Sigma website.

Packing a single lens for a long trip means giving up options you might miss, and the Sigma 20-60mm f/2.8-4 makes that gamble easier to justify. The range covers wide landscapes, tight architecture, and portraits without a bag full of glass.

 

[Read More]

SIRUI has officially announced the launch of the Saturn V2 Full Frame Anamorphic Lens Series, representing a significant update to its popular Saturn anamorphic system. Aimed at modern filmmakers and hybrid content creators, the new generation introduces a unique 90-degree rotating optical mechanism, allowing users to seamlessly transition between traditional horizontal cinematography and vertical shooting formats without needing to swap lenses or rebuild their camera rigs. 

[Read More]

© Sigma

 

Sigma introduced the 85mm F1.2 DG | Art, a compact medium-telephoto prime for L-Mount and Sony E-mount set to ship on September 30. Weighing just 905g, it is the smallest and lightest autofocus 85mm F1.2 lens in its class. Engineered for high-end portraiture and cinematic video, it pairs a 13-blade diaphragm for circular bokeh with a fast, quiet dual HLA autofocus system, completing Sigma's F1.2 Art lens lineup.

 

From Sigma:

 

Sigma Corporation (Headquarters: Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa; CEO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the Sigma 85mm F1.2 DG | Art, a large-aperture medium-telephoto lens for full-frame cameras that combines unparalleled rendering power with a compact, lightweight design.

At 85mm, a focal length widely regarded as ideal for portrait photography, the lens achieves Sigma's brightest-ever F1.2 aperture while also delivering outstanding portability, and will be available beginning September 30th, 2026.

 

Product name: Sigma 85mm F1.2 DG | Art

Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount

Launch: September 30th, 2026

• Product appearance and specifications are subject to change.
• L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
• This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license  agreement with Sony Corporation.

 

Key features

 

• Uncompromising resolution and beautiful bokeh to make the most of F1.2
• Overwhelming mobility that breaks the conventions of an 85mm F1.2
• A full range of functions and build quality that meet the demands of professional use
• Rounding out the F1.2 lineup across wide-angle, standard, and medium-telephoto focal lengths

 

Uncompromising resolution and beautiful bokeh to make the most of F1.2

 

Overwhelming resolving power

In addition to two SLD glass elements, glass with high anomalous dispersion is used to suppress the axial chromatic aberration inherent to large-aperture lenses to the utmost limit. Aspherical lens elements further thoroughly correct spherical aberration and sagittal coma flare. The lens boasts reliably high resolving power from the maximum aperture, fully bringing out the rendering that only F1.2 can offer. It captures every detail of the subject’s expression and texture, taking the quality of both photographs and video to a higher level.

 

Beautiful bokeh that makes the subject stand out

The combination of a large-aperture F1.2 and a medium-telephoto 85mm delivers an extremely shallow depth of field and beautiful, rich bokeh. The adoption of a 13-blade diaphragm maintains a near-circular bokeh even when the aperture is stopped down. Natural bokeh rendering that suppresses color bleeding and double-line bokeh makes the subject stand out impressively, bringing overwhelming three-dimensionality and immersion to portraits and video work.

 

Designed to minimize flare and ghosting

Flare and ghosting, which reduce image quality, are addressed under all conditions of incident light, based on the most advanced simulation technology. High backlight resistance enables clear and sharp images under any lighting conditions.

 

© Sigma

 

Overwhelming mobility that breaks the conventions of an 85mm F1.2

 

The smallest and lightest in its class for an 85mm F1.2

By effectively arranging aspherical lens elements within the focus groups, the number of lens elements making up the focus unit has been significantly reduced. Despite incorporating a complex floating mechanism, a precise mechanical design pared down to the absolute minimum has achieved the smallest and lightest weight in its class for an 85mm F1.2*1 at 905g*2. It can be used comfortably even during long shoots or in situations that demand mobility, dramatically enhancing agility on set.

 

*1  As an AF 85mm F1.2 interchangeable lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras. (As of September 2026 by Sigma)

*2 These figures are for L-Mount.

 

Fast and quiet autofocusing with dual HLA

The fast and quiet AF driven by the dual HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) delivers reliable tracking performance for both stills and video. Even with the shallow depth of field of the maximum F1.2 aperture, it captures the subject accurately, enabling smooth and precise shooting in any scene.

 

The pride of a creative tool: the high build quality of the Art line

By constructing the lens from high-precision parts made of lightweight, high-strength materials such as TSC*1, it offers the rigidity and durability of the Art line without compromising portability, along with the build quality to serve as a reliable photographic tool over the long term.

 

*1 TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) is a type of polycarbonate with a thermal expansion rate similar to that of aluminum. It has a high affinity to metal parts, which contributes to high quality product manufacturing.

 

A full range of functions and build quality that meet the demands of professional use

 

Designed to minimize focus breathing

Optimization of the focus group arrangement and aspherical shape significantly suppresses focus breathing. The change in angle of view due to focus shift is minimized, creating a natural-looking focus shift when recording video.

 

Various shooting assist functions

The lens is equipped with an AFL button in two locations, which can be assigned to a range of functions via the menu on selected cameras. In addition to the aperture ring, the lens is equipped with an aperture ring lock switch*1 and a click switch to turn the click on and off.

 

*1 If you turn it on in position A, the aperture ring will be locked in position A. If you turn it on in a position other than A, it will be locked in the range from open to minimum aperture, and it will not be possible to turn it to position A.

 

© Sigma

 

Dust- and splash-resistant structure*1 and water- and oil-repellent coating

In addition to a dust- and splash-resistant structure, the frontmost surface of the lens has a water- and oil-repellent coating applied, so that the lens can be used safely even in harsh outdoor environments.

 

*1 The product is designed to be dust- and splash-resistant but is not waterproof. When using the lens near water, etc., take care not to allow large amounts of water to splash on it. If water gets inside the lens, it may cause a major malfunction and render the lens unrepairable.

 

Rounding out the F1.2 lineup across wide-angle, standard, and medium-telephoto focal lengths

 

With the arrival of this product, the Sigma F1.2 Art Series is finally complete with three lenses, together with the 35mm F1.2 DG II | Art and the 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art.

Outstanding optical performance that delivers high resolving power across the entire focus range from the maximum aperture. Fast, high-precision AF made possible by dual HLA. And a compact, lightweight body that ranks among the best in its class.

Backed by the advanced design and manufacturing technology Sigma has cultivated over the years, the overwhelming presence and spatial depth created by these three uncompromising lenses render your work all the more striking.

 

Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG II | Art

Further improved optical performance and operability condensed into a compact, lightweight body

 

Sigma 50mm F1.2 DG DN | Art

The ultimate Art F1.2 that transforms everything it captures, and even the shooting experience itself, into something special

 

Sigma 85mm F1.2 DG | Art

Overwhelming rendering power and unprecedented mobility

 

For more information, please visit the Sigma website.

Photoshop's beta 27.11 introduces Enhance Edge, an AI feature that promises to erase the halos that show up when you drop a masked subject onto a contrasting background. Hair cutouts have frustrated retouchers for decades, and any tool that claims to solve them deserves a hard look before you trust it on real work.

 

[Read More]

 

1. Where To Go? 

Meadows with wildflowers growing in abundance are great places for photographing butterflies but please don't trespass on other people's property. You could also visit one of the many nature reserves or public gardens found right across the UK.

If you can't get out and about to photograph butterflies it's worth growing plants in your garden or window boxes etc. that will attract butterflies. These include Aubrieta, Buddleia, Primrose, Honeysuckle, Lavender, Lilac, Marigold, Phlox, Mint, and Thyme. Get to know which plants caterpillars feed upon, too, as you can plant them in your garden or look out for them on your travels.
 

2. Buy A Guide

A butterfly guide book can be very useful in identifying the species whilst out in the field. Occasionally, you may come across a species which is rare or not even native to the UK, it’s handy to know if you have spotted a rare species or even one in decline so you can report your sighting. Of course, you can also use the internet once back home for your research. 

 

 

3. Time Of Day

The best time of day to maximise your chances of photographing butterflies will be early morning or in the evening as they don't move around as quickly. At these times, you may even be lucky enough to see one emerging or covered in dew which can make for that extra special photograph. 

Try to stand/approach them so your shadow doesn't cover them as they'll tend to fly off in search of a sunnier spot. 

If you start out early and temperatures are relatively cool then you may get lucky and find a few sleeping. By approaching slowly and quietly you may be able to move distracting stems etc. out of the way without disturbing your subject, to help with a more pleasing composition. Do take care not to destroy their habitat as many species are declining in numbers.
 

4. Shutter Speeds & Set-Up

Another way to increase your chances of capturing a good shot is by switching to burst mode / continuous shooting. By doing so your camera will rapidly take a series of shots.

Instead of chasing a butterfly around your garden, it can be easier to find a plant you know they like and set up nearby. Then you just have to wait patiently for your subject to land on the part of the plant you're framed upon. It can be a little hit and miss and you will, more than likely, end up waiting a while but on a warm summer's day, having to sit out in your garden isn't really a bad way to pass a few hours!

 

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

© Sigma

 

Sigma Corporation has expanded its full-frame lens lineup with the debut of the Sigma 20-60mm F2.8-4 DG Contemporary zoom lens, scheduled for release on September 30, 2026. Designed for ultimate portability without sacrificing image quality, this compact lens weighs just 385g (L-Mount) and covers an ultra-wide 20mm to standard 60mm range. Built for both stills and video, it combines a fast F2.8 aperture at the wide end, an HLA linear motor AF system, minimal focus breathing, and impressive close-up performance with up to 1:2.3 magnification, making it an adaptable everyday walkaround option for L-Mount and Sony E-mount photographers.

 

From Sigma:

 

Sigma Corporation (Headquarters: Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, CEO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the “Sigma 20-60mm F2.8-4 DG | Contemporary,” a standard zoom lens for full-frame cameras, covering an ultra-wide 20mm to a standard 60mm.

Designed to deliver both a wide-angle perspective and exceptional portability, this lens packs uncompromising sharpness and impressive close-up capabilities into a palm-sized design.

This new lens option from Sigma is designed to maximize the mobility of full-frame systems, and will be available on Wednesday, September 30th, 2026.

 

*1 The figure is for L-Mount.

Product name: Sigma 20-60mm F2.8-4 DG | Contemporary

Available mounts: L-Mount, Sony E-mount

Launch: September 30th, 2026

• Product appearance and specifications are subject to change.
• L-Mount is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
• This product is developed, manufactured and sold based on the specifications of E-mount which was disclosed by Sony Corporation under the license  agreement with Sony Corporation.

 

KEY FEATURES

 

Combining a dynamic 20mm perspective with exceptional agility

Uncompromising optical performance

Reliability for effortless shooting

© Sigma

 

Combining a dynamic 20mm perspective with exceptional agility

 

20–60mm: Freedom to compose

From an expansive 20mm ultra-wide to a natural 60mm perspective, this lens delivers a wide range of expression in a versatile zoom. Capture everything from sweeping landscapes to everyday snapshots and portraits—without changing lenses.

With a maximum aperture of F2.8 at 20mm, you can shoot confidently in low light environments such as indoors and nightscapes, while keeping ISO low.

 

Bringing 20mm into your everyday

Weighing just 385g*1, this 3x zoom achieves an incredibly compact design—remarkable for an ultra-wide lens starting at F2.8. Its slim form fits easily into any bag, making it ideal for everything from daily snapshots and travel to hiking and video creation. Experience full-frame rendering performance with unprecedented portability.

 

*1 The figure is for L-Mount.

 

Uncompromising Optical Performance

 

Consistent high optical performance across the entire zoom range

While prioritizing improved portability, no compromises have been made in image quality. The optical design—featuring 15 elements in 13 groups, including three aspherical lenses and three SLD glass elements—delivers consistent sharpness throughout the entire zoom range. From everyday scenes to breathtaking travel moments, it renders every detail with striking clarity.

 

Macro capabilities for versatile expression

Impressive close-up capability expands shooting versatility.

With a minimum focusing distance of 15.8 cm at 28mm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.3 at 35mm, this lens delivers richly detailed close-up images approaching half-macro performance.

Even at the 60mm telephoto end, it maintains a high magnification of 1:2.9—ensuring a seamless shooting experience across the zoom range, allowing full focus on composition without concern for subject distance.

 

Designed to minimize flare and ghosting

Flare and ghosting, which reduce image quality, are addressed under all conditions of incident light, based on the most advanced simulation technology. High backlight resistance enables clear and sharp images under any lighting conditions.

 

© Sigma

 

Reliability for effortless shooting

 

Fast and quiet autofocusing with HLA system

A linear motor HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) is employed for the AF actuator, delivering high-speed autofocus with high-precision drive to capture decisive moments.

It also offers outstanding tracking performance for fast-moving subjects, even at high frame rates. Engineered for modern hybrid shooting, it ensures seamless performance across stills and video.

 

Minimal focus breathing

The lens is designed to minimize changes in the angle of view caused by focusing, enabling smooth, natural-looking focus pulls when recording video.

 

Dust- and splash-resistant structure*1 / water- and oil-repellent coating

In addition to a dust- and splash-resistant structure*1, the frontmost surface of the lens has a water- and oil-repellent coating applied, allowing photographers to shoot without concern even in harsh outdoor environments.

 

*1 The product is designed to be dust- and splash-resistant but is not waterproof. When using the lens near water, etc., take care not to allow large amounts of water to splash on it. If water gets inside the lens, it may cause a major malfunction.

 

For more information, please visit the Sigma website.

A 1-inch, 50-megapixel sensor, 8K open gate, and slow motion running past 900 frames per second sit on one side. A smaller sensor, a faster lens, and a $260 lower price sit on the other. That gap is the whole story, and deciding which camera wins depends less on the spec sheet than you'd expect.

 

[Read More]

OM Digital Solutions has announced the OM SYSTEM PEN, a new Micro Four Thirds interchangeable-lens camera built around a 20.4-megapixel Live MOS sensor, TruePic IX processor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, and a compact rangefinder-style body. It is the first PEN-series camera released under the OM System brand, as well as the first model in the series to combine an electronic viewfinder with a dustproof and IPX1-rated splashproof design. 

[Read More]

Ricoh is ending production of its current Pentax K-series digital SLRs and starting work on a brand-new line built on what it calls an entirely new concept. The move retires the existing lineup while the company tries to reinvent what a DSLR can be.

 

[Read More]

Sigma is adding an interesting new option to its full frame mirrorless standard zoom lineup: a lens that combines a 20mm wide angle starting point with a compact, lightweight design. The idea was to create a versatile zoom that can stay on the camera most of the time, reducing the need to carry multiple lenses or constantly stop to change them. That makes it particularly appealing for travel, hiking, street photography, and anyone who wants to keep their camera setup as light and mobile as possible.

 

[Read More]

 

Most of us use bridges every single day and while it is true that many - big and small, old and new - of them aren’t worth photographing, there are a great many that are extremely photogenic. These are impressive structures that often dominate the area in which they are situated.

 

1. Safety First

Before you head off to the nearest suspension bridge with your camera bag, it is worth saying that you should take care and be considerate in your pursuit of bridge images. Park only where you are allowed, stick to recognised pedestrian areas and do not endanger yourself or anyone else – that includes tripping fellow visitors with your tripod.
 

2. Lens Choices  Anything goes in respect of lens options. Wide-angles can give dramatic lines and obviously work best if you can walk onto the bridge itself so you can wander around looking for bold foreground details. Set a small lens aperture for an extensive depth-of-field to make the most of scenes. Wides are obviously great too, to put a bridge into context with its surroundings if you can't get back far enough. If you find using a wide-angle lens gives you a shot with too much sky and land in it try shooting in a panoramic format. 

If you want to compress perspective, it is time to fit a telephoto lens. Long lenses are handy too for isolating structure details and the like. Longer lenses give a stronger flattening effect and it can look great when there are lots of lines to compress.

 

 

3. Think Accessories 

A polariser is worth considering, particularly on sunny days when it can enrich blue skies as well as eliminate glare for saturated colours. Just watch your apertures and shutter speeds.

It is worth having a tripod in the car and although you might not need it for most of the time, it will pay for itself when the lighting levels drop or when you want to use slow shutter speeds to blur traffic.
 

4. When To Go? 

Time of day and lighting are two crucial aspects to consider. Most weather conditions work for bridges although one exception to that is dull, flat, blank sky days. Early morning or late evening are good times when a low sun gives oblique lighting to highlight textures in the scene and the warm lighting adds to the mood. If you make the effort to get there for the evening light you might as well as hang around for twilight and a bit of low light photography. This is where the tripod and remote release are essential. A head torch comes in handy too as the light levels drop away.

 

 

5. Shoot Detail

As well as overall views of the bridge, do get in close and shoot details too. Nuts and bolts, suspension wires, supports, signs and much more can make for good images. You could even set yourself a mini project and shoot a series of images that sums up the structure. This is a great idea for older structures but works for new bridges too. Look for interesting patterns when working at these close distances which can be turned into graphical, abstract shots.

 

6. Choose Your Angle

The angle you shoot a bridge can make it look more powerful. When you see a bridge in the distance, consider where else you could go nearer to the bridge or from other angles to get better / different viewpoints. 

 

7. Longer Shutter Speeds

Once daylight has given way to twilight it is time to explore the long shutter speeds of your camera. You could try the B (Bulb) setting where the shutter stays open so long as the shutter button is held down using the remote release. Most advanced cameras have lengthy shutter speed options available, and if you want to shoot longer B is the setting to use, but it is important to make sure your battery has plenty of charge. If the battery fails before the image is finished and saved you will lose it.

 

 

8. Contrast Can Be A Problem

On a bright day, the contrast between the sunlit bridge's walls and the shadowed arches can be very different. If you take a meter reading from the lit bricks they'll come out fine but underneath the arches, they'll be no detail as it'll be black. If you expose for the darker shadow areas the bricks will still be light but they won't have any detail. To fix this, you can either expose for the highlights (brick) and use flash to fill in the shadow area or bracket the shot.

 

9. Guide The Eye 

You can use bridges as paths that lead the eye through your shot or use colourful lines created by traffic crossing the bridge when captured with slower shutter speeds to guide the eye through the image. You can also use bridge arches as in-picture frames to focus the eye on a particular part of the shot. Just keep an eye on the exposure when doing this to make sure the scene doesn't appear too dark. 

 

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

© EISA

 

Nikon's on a roll at the 2026 EISA Awards, landing four accolades that span both camera and lens categories. The recognition covers a solid range of gear, from the specialist ZR video camera to everyday workhorse lenses. The judges clearly valued Nikon's approach to building a complete, capable system. From solo videographers to working photographers, there's something in this award haul worth considering.

 

From Nikon:

Nikon proudly announces its success at the 2026–2027 Expert Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) Awards, receiving four accolades across a range of product categories.

The accolades include:

• The Nikon ZR awarded “Photo/Video Camera 2026-2027"
• The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens awarded “Lens of the Year”
• The NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 lens taking home “Standard Lens” award
• The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens receiving the “Telephoto Zoom Lens” award

Nikon's cutting-edge dedicated video camera, the ZR, impressed the judges with its advanced subject-tracking autofocus, built-in 7.5-stop image stabilisation, impressive video quality, excellent audio, and large, bright 4-inch screen. Incorporating advanced video codecs and colour technology from Nikon-owned RED, while providing access to the expansive Nikon Z system, the ZR was praised as a unique tool for ambitious videographers.

Nikon's next-gen NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens was lauded in its category for its lighter design, enhanced optical performance, and video-friendly internal zoom construction. The lens stood out for its more lightweight design, faster autofocus and improved sharpness at close distances, with the judges describing the lens as a “top-class professional lens without any weaknesses”.

Judges were also impressed by Nikon’s compact NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 lens, citing its versatile macro capabilities, bright f/1.7 aperture, and excellent optical performance in their acclaim. Judges praised it as the perfect second lens for Nikon DX users, offering the versatility of both a standard and macro lens in a lightweight, compact design.

Nikon’s second-generation NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens was recognised for its impressive range of improvements, including a lighter design, faster autofocus, and enhanced optical performance. Featuring improved coatings, an 11-blade aperture for beautifully smooth bokeh, and up to 6 stops of image stabilisation when paired with compatible Nikon cameras, the lens delivers outstanding results for both stills and video.

The four awards showcase Nikon’s continued commitment to world-class design and engineering excellence, empowering photographers and videographers with pioneering equipment that allow them to push the boundaries of creativity and achieve exceptional results.

 

© EISA

 

EISA comments for “Photo/Video Camera 2026-2027" award

With the ZR, Nikon has created a dedicated video camera packed with attractive features at a reasonable price. Incorporating advanced video codecs and colour technology from Nikon-owned RED, videographers get a unique tool with access to the expansive Nikon Z system. Impressive video quality, excellent audio, built-in 7.5-stop image stabilisation, Nikon’s advanced subject-tracking autofocus, and a huge, bright 4” screen provide solo creators and ambitious videographers with a complete, highly capable tool with extensive production potential.

 

© EISA

 

EISA comments for the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II ”Lens of the Year 2026-2027" award

Nikon has improved its fast standard zoom lens in a number of impressive ways. The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is 130 grams lighter than its predecessor, and it’s better suited for video thanks to internal zoom construction, which makes it easier to operate on a gimbal. Focusing has become even faster with minimal breathing, while sharpness has been improved at shorter distances. The anti-reflective coating is improved and is now class leading. Overall, this results in a top-class professional lens without any weaknesses. It’s true workhorse for professionals and a real investment in image quality for photo enthusiasts.

 

© EISA

 

EISA comments for the NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 “Standard Lens” award 2026-2027

The NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 is a real jewel in Nikon’s lens range. The optical construction is designed for DX (APS-C) sensors, and it functions as both a macro lens for close-ups, and a standard lens with relatively high brightness. Compact size, low weight and great sharpness are among its many attractive features. Linear distortion is almost unnoticeable and there’s little vignetting either. Other practical features are weather sealing and inner focusing. The lens covers the same subject area as a 1:1 macro lens for full frame. It’s the perfect second lens for owners of DX-format mirrorless Nikon cameras.

 

© EISA

 

EISA comments for the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm F2.8 VR S II “Telephoto Zoom Lens”award 2025-2026

This second-generation professional telephoto zoom boasts an impressive array of improvements over its already excellent predecessor. The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm F2.8 VR S II is significantly lighter, focuses faster and closer, is perfectly balanced and ideal for both video and stills. With the uncompromising quality of Nikon’s S series, improved coating and 11 aperture blades, this zoom delivers superb image quality and strikingly fine bokeh, whether you’re shooting portraits or following fast athletes. The detachable tripod foot is now Arca-Swiss compatible, while the optical image stabiliser provides 6 stops shake compensation while working together with the camera’s in-body stabilisation. It’s Nikon’s best zoom yet.

Every year, the EISA Awards celebrate those new products that combine the most advanced technology and desirable features with class-leading performance. The EISA Awards extend from the most affordable, high-value products to the most aspirational expressions of modern consumer electronics. Award categories change from year to year, reflecting the evolution of product design and connectivity, but every EISA Award winner remains the very best in its class. 

For more information, please visit the EISA website.