What makes a photograph good? This simple yet profound question has sparked countless debates among photographers and viewers alike. As both an art form and a skill, photography balances subjectivity with universal standards. A photograph that resonates deeply with one person might leave another indifferent. Yet, certain principles consistently elevate an image to something truly compelling.

Ethics in photography isn’t only about respecting boundaries; it’s about understanding the responsibility a photographer has to their subjects, their audience, and themselves. In a world where AI tools are increasingly integrated into photography, self-reflection becomes even more crucial. Beyond questions of technical skill or composition, self-reflection encourages us to think critically about why we create images and how we want those images to represent reality—or at least, our perception of it.

In today’s rapidly evolving camera market, new models emerge frequently, each with technological advancements designed to attract photographers seeking the latest features. Amid this constant progression, it’s natural to wonder if certain models can remain relevant over time. As a longtime Canon user, I’ve come to appreciate the Canon ecosystem deeply—from the quality of Canon lenses to the color science that consistently delivers outstanding results. While I find the Canon R5 to be an excellent camera, the R7 has particular advantages that make it my go-to choice for wildlife photography. In this post, I’ll explore why the Canon R7, with its crop sensor and other field-specific features, is still relevant today and why I continue to choose it over the R5 for my work in the wild

In today’s fast-paced world, where news and notifications flood our senses, finding a sense of calm can feel almost impossible. Every day, we’re surrounded by pressure to keep up, keep going, and keep informed. But, for many of us, there comes a time when we need a break—a true escape from the noise and negativity. That’s where the art of bird photography, and photography in general, comes in. It’s an art form, yes, but it’s also a journey into nature, a retreat for the mind, and a remedy for stress.

The world of photography has always been marked by change. Technology, in particular, has accelerated in recent years, offering photographers tools and possibilities that were unimaginable even a decade ago. But with this rapid progress comes a blend of excitement and resistance. Some embrace these advancements wholeheartedly, while others hesitate, clinging to older methods and ideologies. It’s an interesting—and necessary—debate for any creative field. Yet, I believe those who resist will eventually find themselves left behind.

The age-old debate surrounding photography’s place in the art world has lingered for over a century. Some argue that photography is merely a mechanical reproduction of reality, while others see it as a powerful form of artistic expression. As both a photographer and an artist in my own right, I often reflect on this debate. What defines "art" in photography? Is it the skill behind the camera, the interpretation of the scene, or perhaps the final image that truly matters?

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing an unforgettable birding trip in Ecuador with the Magic Birding Circuit, staying at the renowned San Jorge Eco-Lodges. From the ease of the flight into Quito to the exceptional accommodations and world-class service, every aspect of the trip exceeded expectations. The combination of expert guidance, spectacular wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes made for a birding adventure that will be hard to top.

Bird photography encompasses more than just possessing high-quality equipment and mastering technical settings. While a good lens and proper camera adjustments are crucial, the essence of capturing truly remarkable bird images lies in developing your field craft.

In today’s world, photography is a language spoken by millions, a visual expression amplified by the relentless stream of images flooding social media. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, lost even, in the cacophony of visual voices vying for attention. Finding your own style, a distinct photographic voice that resonates with your inner vision, can seem like an insurmountable challenge. Yet, it’s a journey worth taking, one that demands patience, introspection, and a willingness to embrace both technical and creative growth

As photographers, we often fall into a rhythm with our work. Day in and day out, we know our subjects, our equipment, and our surroundings like the back of our hand. Shooting and editing become second nature, and before long, muscle memory takes over. It’s a place of comfort and confidence—one where we know exactly what to expect and how to handle whatever comes our way. But every now and then, even the most seasoned photographers find themselves riding the struggle bus, where the smallest issue can derail an entire session.

The countdown has begun! In just a few weeks, I'll be heading off on an 8-day bird photography journey through the lush and diverse landscapes of Ecuador, guided by the renowned Magic Birding Circuit. This trip has been months in the making, from meticulously planning the itinerary to booking the flights, and now, as the departure date draws near, I’m excited to share what I’ve packed to ensure I capture the best possible images of Ecuador's vibrant birdlife.

As a wildlife photographer, I often find myself in challenging positions to capture the perfect shot. One of the most demanding aspects of my work is shooting at very low angles. This typically involves laying on my belly to get the right perspective, which can be quite uncomfortable over long periods. To improve my shooting experience, I decided to research and purchase an external monitor that could attach to the top of my camera. This decision has allowed me to sit comfortably on the ground behind my camera, eliminating the need for constant prone positioning.

Wildlife photography is more than just pointing a camera at an animal and clicking the shutter. It's about capturing the essence of the subject, showcasing the unique behaviors, and telling stories that engage the viewer. Subject engagement is the key to creating images that resonate and leave a lasting impact. But how do you achieve this in the unpredictable world of wildlife?

Photography, like any other art form, requires dedication, passion, and most importantly, practice. As a photographer, especially one focusing on the intricate beauty of birds, practice is not just about perfecting a shot but also about developing a deeper understanding of your subjects and your tools. Here’s how consistent practice can elevate your craft and make you a better photographer.

Over the past month, I documented the journey of two black-necked stilts from mating to nesting to hatching their chicks. Capturing each moment to tell their story was incredibly rewarding. Revisiting the same spot to witness their progress was a special experience.

Embarking on the journey of photography is akin to stepping onto a path laden with moments of triumph, self-doubt, and enlightenment. Many of us begin with a camera in hand, convinced our early images are worthy of National Geographic. This initial phase, filled with naive optimism, is often short-lived as reality sets in. But it is within this reality that true growth begins.

With nearly 45 years of experience in landscape photography under my belt, I've seen my fair share of successes. From selling prints to building a solid social media following, it's been a fulfilling journey. This past weekend, however, presented a new challenge: capturing the Northern Lights. Despite a strong geomagnetic storm, the lights remained elusive. So, we turned our lenses southward to the Milky Way.

This is the first in a series of posts that will dive into some of the controversies surrounding photography. In the modern world that we live in, technology is advancing faster than ever. We now have amazing tools in both hardware and software that allow us photographers to focus more on the creative aspects of capturing an image. With the rise of these technologies, also comes the rise of controversy surrounding these tools.

In the world of photography, light isn’t just an element; it’s the very essence of what makes or breaks an image. Understanding light and its nuances is crucial for any photographer aiming to elevate their craft from mere snapshots to captivating works of art. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or still life, mastering light can transform your images from ordinary to extraordinary. Let’s delve into why understanding light is paramount in photography.

I vividly remember my first trip out to the local bird sanctuary thinking to my self “Just wait until National Geographic gets a hold of these images!” (kidding). A very short time into my visit, I quickly realized that you actually have to know a few things about the birds and the habitat you are photographing in order to capture a successful image. Not only did have no idea what species I was photographing at any given time, I had no idea what common behaviors they display so that I could even remotely be prepared to capture a successful bird in flight shot. I was overwhelmed, frustrated and a bit depressed in that I actually had no idea what I was doing and my images just plain sucked.