Tog-Talk (Kevin Ahronson)

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Episode 9: Photography, it’s not all about the gear… is it?


I confess, I am a bit of a gear-head. 

Over the years I have collected lots of cameras, lenses, filters, accessories and loads and loads of lighting gear.  Prior to the COVID pandemic I would upgrade my camera every time a new model come out, convinced I needed the latest technology to take the best photos.

If one good thing came out of lockdown for me, it was the forced restraint on my spending.  Like most people running their own business, we were closed (or at least working under reduced numbers) for nearly two years.  My own situation was made worse as I went through cancer treatment during the summer of 2021, extending my period of isolation.

Here we are in February 2022 and things are showing signs of returning to normal (mindful that should another COVID variant be discovered, this could all change in a heartbeat).

Remaining optimistic, I am relaunching the Tog-Talk podcast exactly two years after the last one was first broadcast.  Tog-Talk (photographers in conversation) will engage photographers of all types and all levels of experience (not just the experts, but ordinary amateurs too… who also have valuable experiences to share). 

Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundations in (amongst other things): photography theory, composition, portrait & landscape photography, working with flash, macro photography and editing in Lightroom and Photoshop.  Some of our courses go even deeper… to stretch students with challenging assignments, forcing them out of their comfort zones.

Founder of HSP, Kevin Ahronson, also offers private mentoring to a small number of people each year, as his busy schedule allows

Check out our website for more information about courses, all of which are run at our training centre.

Website: gohsp.com

Test your knowledge
Free Viewfinder Workshops

Blog:  The Photography Teacher
Facebook: Hampshire School of Photography

Contact us on either of these addresses:
Email: info@gohsp.com

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Not entirely true… when I became a photographer, many of the things covered in this discussion weren’t even invented.  But for today’s photographers, I know for certain these are really helpful tips because I am constantly finding myself talking to my students about them.

Photography can be complex and the learning process can be very hit or miss when you’re self-taught.  Obviously my students have the benefit of learning from someone who has spent years (decades) making all the mistakes possible… so that they don’t have to.  If only there had been a Hampshire School of Photography when I first started, I could have saved me years of trial and error (and a lot of pain!).

So the ten things we look at in this episode will speed up your learning curve considerably.  Learning on your own doesn’t have to be as painful and frustrating as it was for me.  Let us help take away some of that learning pain from you.

Listen and take notes as I am joined by Tracey Clarkson and Forbes Johnston for Episode number 10 of Tog-Talk


The Tog-Talk website has all our podcast plus more details about guests with photos and links to other exciting information: tog-talk.com



This link will take you to the Photography Assessment Tool we talked about in this episode:
Test your knowledge

Other useful links:
Blog:  The Photography Teacher
Facebook: Hampshire School of Photography

Contact us on either of these addresses:
Email: info@gohsp.com
Email: support@gohsp.com

Office Tel:  01252 613265

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Inner Circle; the title alone suggests an exclusive group.  An elite, crack-troupe of hand-picked photographers who disciple under my mentorship.   

The reality is far more down to earth. 

They are in fact a small group of amateur photographers who want something beyond what most traditional photography workshops and course can offer.  They don’t want discussions about the rule of thirds or which buttons to press on their cameras.  What they’re  seeking is far deeper, far more challenging and far more left field.

It’s more about developing photography as a sixth-sense, so that making photographs is instinctive, something that comes from lack of fear and an openness to experiment. 

My early thoughts
I originally conceived Inner Circle as a place where graduates from my Photography Masterclass  would go ,once the course was complete.  During their year together they would have learned an enormous amount about a wide range of photography genres.  They would have made some great friends along the way and got used to monthly assignments to keep them focused and motivated.  Many of them were asking for something more, something to progress onto... once Masterclass ended.

Inner Circle was born

This week’s Tog-Talk is a fascinating insight into what actually goes on inside the Inner Circle group.  I am joined by two students who are halfway through their Inner Circle year…  Nige Ward and Russ Clark.  The guys talk openly and honestly about their experiences so far and what they have discovered, not only about how the group operates… but also how they have grown from the experience.


Want to find out more?
Our second Inner Circle group starts on 12 March (2022) and at the time of writing this, there is still one place free.

To read more about Inner Circle here’s a couple of links.  The first is the webpage and the second is a more detailed description on my blog: the Photography Teacher.

However, you will get the best feel for Inner Circle by listening to Nige and Russ in this week’s episode of Tog-Talk.


Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundati

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Having shot weddings for the last 12 years, I've kinda lost that sense of terror when I'm asked to shoot another one.  But I remember my first wedding: a combined sense of wonder and an uncontrollable rush of adrenaline.  Excitement and panic, all in one.

When you get asked
I regularly meet students who have been asked by friends or family to photograph their wedding. 

One the one hand it's a tremendous privilege to be asked.  To think that someone likes and trusts your work enough, that they would ask you to photograph what is probably the most important day of their lives.

On the other hand, few photography jobs I know, fill an inexperienced photographer with more sense of dread.  Possibly the word 'Terror' is more apt. 

Most photographers are terrified of missing the most important shots of the day, they hate the idea of having to organise wedding guests into the group shots (called 'Formals') and are they sufficiently competent with their camera to ensure they can handle the pressure. 

Deciding to shoot a wedding can be a real test of metal.

There's no doubt about it, the learning experience is invaluable... it's just that few photographers would want to use the wedding as a learning tool. 

Today's Tog-Talk content
In this Tog-Talk, we initially look at the discipline of 365 day photography.  Shooting one photo every day for a year is something this week's guest, Forbes Johnston, has been doing for the last three years.  He unpacks some of his thoughts.

The main part of the show though is looking at the wedding question discussed above.  We covered a lot of ground with loads and loads of really practical tips to help you on your first wedding.

Some links from the discussion:

Used gear
WEX Photo & Video
MPB
Park Cameras

Online Galleries for clients
Shootproof

Take a photo every day for a year
365 Photo Project


Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide sol

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Joined again by Tracey Clarkson, we look at a forthcoming 10-week series for brand new photographers. 

These are planned to be shorter than normal Tog-Talks (around 10-15 mins) and are a basic introduction to photography, without getting too complicated.

Starting next week the first episode will be looking at digital cameras.  Make sure you click the follow button to ensure you don't miss a single episode.


Which Lens would you Pick?
The main topic for conversation today is about picking our top three favourite lenses.  If you could only pick three lenses, just three... to last you for the rest of your life, what would they be? 

There were some surprising similarities between Kevin's and Tracey's choices, and then it turns out they share a mutual dislike of one particular lens.  You'll have to listen to the episode to find out what it is.  It may surprise you.


Some links from the discussion:

Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)
This one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer !

Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.


Photography Assessment Tool:
Use this online tool to assess your photography knowledge and get a snapshot of your strengths and weaknesses.




Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundations in (amongst other things): photography theory, composition, portrait & landscape photography, working with flash, macro photography and editing in Lightroom and Photoshop.  Some of our courses go even deeper… to stretch students with challenging assignments, forcing them out of their comfort zones.

Founder of HSP, Kevin Ahronson, also offers private mentoring to a small number of people each year, as his busy schedule allows

Check out our website for more information about courses, all of which are run at our training centre.


Free

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Of all the questions I regularly get asked, the one about cameras is usually the most common.

“What camera should I buy”
“What camera would you recommend for someone new to photography”
“Which camera is best?”

Understandably, most new photographers want to make a good decision about the money they're about to spend.

The camera industry has just been through a major shake-up, as one by one, manufacturers have gradually stopped production of DSLR cameras in favour of the new ‘Mirrorless’ cameras.

DSLRs have been around for a couple of decades and most people are familiar with them, but mirrorless only started to appear about 10 years ago and have taken a while to perfect their game..

Initially they just weren’t good enough. But like most new technologies, as time passes so the product gets better. Eventually they progressed to the point where DSLRs could no longer keep up (technologically-speaking).

The early players in the mirrorless field were Fuji, Olympus, Panasonic and Sony.  Canon and Nikon, the market leaders in DSLR cameras were slow to join the race, but when eventually they did, it marked the death knell for the older mechanical DSLR format.

Understanding the difference between DSLRs and Mirrorless is helpful, but the big question remains... which is the right one for you?


Photography Basics Part. 1

Today we begin a 10-week series looking at some of the basics of photography.  It is designed specifically for new photographers (newbies) and addresses many of the key areas that will help you understand some of the technical essentials you'll need to master your camera.

Most of the episodes are expected to be relatively short in length, this first one is around 50 mins as it also acts as an introduction to the series.


Some links from the discussion:

These are great sources of used gear that I personally recommend.

• Wex Photo & Video
• MPB
• Park Cameras

Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)
Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer !

Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level,

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

The Shutter

Last episode we looked at the aperture, now it's the turn of the shutter.

From our perspective today, we're going to look at two different types of shutter.  One is mechanical and the other is electronic.   

Older DSLR cameras will be mechanical, but the newer, mirrorless cameras (which have effectively taken over from DSLRs) tend to offer both mechanical and electronic options.

Understanding the pros and cons of both systems will help you make the right choice for the shot you're taking.  Certainly, electronic shutters have a lot to offer, but there are some drawbacks, some disadvantages.  However, as technology improves, so we can expect those disadvantages to eventually disappear.


Camera Shake

Controlling your shutter speed will help you avoid  'camera shake'. 

Many times over the years, students have complained to me that their photos are out of focus.  In reality, the focus is fine, but the images look blurred or soft because the shutter speed has been too slow.  There is a limit to how steady we can hold the cameras in our hands.  Once you go below a certain threshold, blurring will occur and that threshold varies from lens to lens, or rather, from focal length to focal length.

In simple terms, the longer your focal length, the faster your shutter needs to be  to avoid camera shake.  I refer to this speed as the MHHSS (minimum hand-held shutter speed).

Working out the MHHSS was very easy back in the days when we were all shooting with 35mm film cameras.  I was taught it by my school photography club at the tender age of 14, and the principle still holds today, over 50 years later. 

These days however, many of us shoot with cropped sensor cameras, which have a magnification effect on every lens we use, and so we have to take that into consideration.


Getting a Bit Technical

This episode of Tog-Talk does get a bit technical, and some listeners may have to take notes to help them get their heads around it.   

Some photography subjects were always going to be tougher to explain without visuals and if by the end of this podcast, you are still struggling a bit, you may want to consider signing up for one of our workshops (providing you live near our training centre in Hampshire in the UK).  I have provided a link to our Introduction to photography one-day workshop below.


Some links from the discussion:

• Crop Sensor Cameras.  

This ancient video I made back in 2016 should help explain what a cropped frame (or cropped sensor) camera is.  

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

The Aperture

Continuing our ten-part mini series for new photographers (Photography Basics), this week we are looking at the Aperture.

Whilst most people are familiar with the role of the aperture in terms of controlling the amount of light that enters the camera... perhaps not so many understand the relationship between aperture and the other two elements of the exposure triangle: shutter speed and ISO.

Then there's the side effect of changing the aperture... the impact it has upon the Depth of Field (DoF), the amount of the photo that appears sharp. 

The size of the aperture affects how much of your photo is in focus.  Wide apertures give you a narrow DoF, whereas small apertures give you wider ones.   

As a portrait photographer I may want to soften the background behind someone I'm photographing, to help them stand out from the background.  Picking a wide open aperture like f/2 or f/1.8 will brilliantly isolate the subject by giving me a narrow DoF. 

Conversely, if I'm shooting a landscape scene, I may want both my foreground and background sharp, in which case I pick a smaller aperture like f/11 or f/16 to give me a wide DoF.

Understanding the aperture will help you take control of your camera and your picture. 

Some links from the discussion:

These are great sources of used gear that I personally recommend.

• Crop Sensor Cameras.  This ancient video I made back in 2016 should help explain what a crop frame (or crop sensor) camera is.  

Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)
Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer !

Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

PLEASE NOTE: All course fees will be going up on 1st April (2022).  And no, this is not an April fool !  If you register for any course before that date, you will get it at current prices.

Photography Assessment Tool:
Use this online tool to assess your photography knowledge and get a snapshot of your strengths and weaknesses.

Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teac

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

So now we're looking at the third piece of the puzzle, of what is traditionally referred to as the Exposure Triangle.

When you combine the three elements of the Exposure Triangle, they interact with each other in what's often referred to as the law of reciprocity. 

This reciprocating relationship between aperture, shutter speed and ISO allows us to take control of the light coming into the camera - and we chose which of the three elements will take priority, which side effects will dominate and which do not.

What actually is ISO?
I meet very few photographers who fully understand what ISO is.  I meet even fewer who know what the initials ISO stand for.   

ISO is an independent, non-governmental international organisation that looks after thousands of standards worldwide.  Based in Geneva, Switzerland, the International Organization  for Standardization controls over 24,000 standards (at the time of writing) from health and the environment, to electrical engineering and telecommunications, and of course... photography. 

Its range of influence on world standards is huge and from our perspective, any camera manufacturer, wishing to produce a new camera sensor, has to follow ISO's guidelines to comply with international standards.

Photography has a number of standards controlled by ISO, but perhaps ISO12232:2019 is the one we're most interested in today. 

It specifies:

'the method for assigning and reporting ISO speed ratings, ISO speed latitude ratings, standard output sensitivity values, and recommended exposure index values, for digital still cameras. It is applicable to both monochrome and colour digital still cameras'


Back to our cameras
ISO replaced the old film-speed rating ASA (American Standards Association) around 1987.  Back in the day, you would buy a roll of film which had a fixed speed rating (eg. ASA100, ASA200, or ASA400) and you were locked into that rating. 

Come the arrival of digital cameras, we found that we were able to change that speed rating (or ISO) to virtually whatever we wanted, and a whole new era of flexible exposure control began. 

This week's Tog-Talk is quite a short one, but I think you will find it interesting. 

If you have any questions, write to me at: info@gohsp.com



Some links from this week's Tog-Talk

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowl

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Believe it or not, there are more ways to take a photo than by simply leaving the camera switched to AUTO.

AUTO mode is great for beginners and those who just want to shoot snaps, but if you want to take control of your camera and unleash your creative potential, you need to come out of AUTO and explore some of the other shooting modes.

Common Camera Shooting Modes
Depending on your camera (because not all cameras are the same), your will normally have a choice of:

• AUTO
• Program Mode (not all cameras have this)
• Aperture Priority Mode
• Shutter Priority Mode
• Manual Mode

Program Mode
Program Mode is useful, although for some reason it's not that popular.  I've rarely met anyone who uses it.  It's just like shooting in AUTO but... it allows you to override some of the camera's settings.  This gives you some very useful creative control.

Aperture Priority Mode
The world's most popular shooting mode, used by more photographers than any other mode.  It's fast, easy and you still have a lot of additional control to override the camera's settings if the image needs tweaking. 

In this mode, you chose the aperture (you give priority to the aperture) and the camera does the rest.  It's a kind of 'semi-automatic' mode, working out what shutter speed to shoot at... based on the aperture you've chosen.  Choosing the aperture is important if you want to control your Depth -of-Field (how much of your image is going to be in focus).

Shutter Priority Mode
This is the opposite of Aperture Priority.  You choose the shutter and the camera will pick an aperture.  Often used by sport and wildlife photographers, or anyone else shooting fast-moving subjects.

Manual Mode
Often thought of by many to be the shooting mode of choice for professionals.  But they would be wrong.  Granted, it is probably more popular amongst pros, most of them still shoot in Aperture Priority most of the time. 

Respective Pros & Cons
There are advantages and disadvantages in all of these modes, familiarity with them could help you pick the right one for the right situation.  No one single mode is best for everything, or for every camera type.  For instance, I shoot mostly in Aperture Priority when using my DSLR cameras, but mostly Manual when using my mirrorless cameras.  However, I am happy to switch between modes as the job requires.

Some of the courses and workshops run at our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photogra

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Continuing the 10 part series looking at photography basics... today we focus on focus.

More important than Exposure?
Nailing a sharp focus is arguably more important than getting the exposure right.  Take a photo either over or under-exposed, and in most cases you can correct it in post.  Take a photo out of focus and there really isn't much you can do to. 

If you take a photo and the image is soft, if your subject is clearly not sharp, then the chances are that you will have to bin that photo.  Software sharpening can only go so far.  It can't sharpen an out-of-focus image, but it is very good and making an already sharp photo look even sharper.

This week's episode
There are lots of ways to ensure your photos are sharp and in this week's Tog-Talk I will show you two very simple techniques. 

Photography is obviously a visual medium and Tog-Talk isn't.  In an audio broadcast, there will always be limitations on what I can effectively teach. 

However, you may want to check out The Photography Teacher, my online resource that includes techniques, tips and video tutorials on many aspects of photography. 

Ultimately, if you live close enough to our training centre you could attend one of our workshops (or longer courses) in both photography and photo-editing.


Some of the courses and workshops run at our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer !

Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

• The Photography Masterclass (one year course)

Students on the Photography Masterclass will immerse themselves in photography for a whole year, working as part of the larger group but also in smaller groups of 2 or 3, supporting and assisting each other.

This is a ten-module photography course with photo-assignments between sessions.  Each session lasts three hours and will include time to examine assignment images and take part in practicals (where appropriate).

Or...

Or you could simple have a go at our Photography Assessment Tool, to test your photography knowledge.

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Some of us love to photograph beautiful landscapes, others like to shoot people... maybe in the studio or maybe capture them candidly on the street.  Helen Davies does most of her photography on the kitchen table and produces stunning images.

This week's Tog-Talk takes a week off from the current series on Photography Basics to look at a very talented lady.  We will return to the 'Basics' series next week as we look at tips on getting your photos correctly exposed, especially under difficult lighting situations.

But now, it's back to Helen...

Creative Table-Top Photography
I've known Helen for a few years and I have been regularly impressed by the quality of her work and her creative imagination .  Working with liquids, lights and various items usually found in the kitchen, she has proved to me that photography is not just landscapes and people.   

In this weeks's Tog-Talk, Helen reveals her secrets for taking great table-top shots...  and along the way, we have a few giggles as well.

I've taken the step of posting additional information and examples of her work in my blog, The Photography Teacher.   There's only so much information that can be shared in a podcast.  With a visual medium like photography, sometimes there simply has to be a way to show off the images. 

Check out the The Photography Teacher to see some of Helen's work, and while you're there, feast upon all the other tutorials that are freely available on the site, including the higly popular 30 Days of Photoshop series.

Improving your photography
I really appreciate you taking the time to listen to this broadcast and I hope that you have found it interesting as well as entertaining.   If you're looking to imporove your photography and you live close enough to our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire, you could attend one of our workshops (or our longer courses) in both photography and photo-editing.

If you're at the beginning of your photography journey you might find this one-day introduction, just what you're looking for:

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer!  Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Why do some photos come out dark?

This is such a common question among new photographers. 

Surely with today's super-clever (and super-expensive) digital cameras, you'd expect the technology to guarantee that every shot is perfectly exposed, every time?  And yet it isn't.

The thing is, cameras can't read our minds.  They don't know what we're thinking.  They have no idea what creative thoughts are going through our minds when we look at a scene. 

They simply measure the light they see and react according to their programming.  It is up to us to take control of the camera to get the results we want - and in this week's episode I will show you a couple of really easy techniques that anyone can master.


Improving your photography
I really appreciate you taking the time to listen to this broadcast and I hope that you have found it interesting as well as entertaining.   If you're looking to improve your photography and you live close enough to our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire, you could attend one of our workshops (or our longer courses) in both photography and photo-editing.

If you're at the beginning of your photography journey you might find this one-day introduction, just what you're looking for:

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer!  Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

Want something more?
Alternatively, If you want a course that raises the bar, something to immerse yourself in for a whole year, you'll want to join our Photography Masterclass.  Run twice a year, with intakes during Spring and Autumn, it is our core workshop.

• The Photography Masterclass (one year course)

Students on the Photography Masterclass will build a solid foundation of technical and creative skills .  They will learn not only how their cameras work and how to shoot with a creative eye, but there are modules on photographing people, working with flash, shooting landscapes, macro photography, as well as two modules on editing.

This is a ten-module photography course with photo-assignments between sessions.  Each session lasts three hours and will include time to examine assignment images and take part in practicals (where app

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Episode 8 of the 10-part Photography Basics series and we are asking the question that I am asked all the time...

"Which Lens Should You Buy Next?"

Having got the kit lens that came with your new camera, you're now looking to take your photography to the next level.  You realise that this lens is perhaps not the best lens to help you.   Kit lenses are usually (there are some exceptions) very low quality and to get the kind of photos you're hoping for, you really need to get something else.

This week's Tog-Talk unpacks some of the mystery surrounding lenses and I give you my recommendations for the next lens to buy...


Improving your photography
I really appreciate you taking the time to listen to this broadcast and I hope that you have found it interesting as well as entertaining.   If you're looking to imporove your photography and you live close enough to our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire, you could attend one of our workshops (or our longer courses) in both photography and photo-editing.

If you're at the beginning of your photography journey you might find this one-day introduction, just what you're looking for:

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer!  Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

Want something more?
Alternatively, If you want a course that raises the bar, something to immerse yourself in for a whole year, you'll want to join our Photography Masterclass.  Run twice a year, with intakes during Spring and Autumn, it is our core workshop.

• The Photography Masterclass (one year course)

Students on the Photography Masterclass will build a solid foundation of technical and creative skills .  They will learn not only how their cameras work and how to shoot with a creative eye, but there are modules on photographing people, working with flash, shooting landscapes, macro photography, as well as two modules on editing.

This is a ten-module photography course with photo-assignments between sessions.  Each session lasts three hours and will include time to examine assignment images and take part in practicals (where appropriate).

Or...

Or you could simple have a go at our

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

At some point in your photography, your enthusiasm will sadly decline.  It's inevitable.   It happens to most photographers, so don't feel guilty. 

It has happened to me a number of times over the years, and through those experiences, I believe I have found some of the best solutions to keep me constantly motivated.

This is episode nine of a 10-part series looking at Photography Basics.  In  this episode I look at what to do when your photography-mojo leaves you, when inspiration and motivation feel beyond reach.   

If you've ever found yourself in the wilderness, dry, lacking creative inspiration, you were not alone and hopefully the experiences I share with you today will be genuinely helpful the next time it happens.

Improving your photography
I really appreciate you taking the time to listen to this broadcast and I hope that you have found it interesting as well as entertaining.   If you're looking to imporove your photography and you live close enough to our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire, you could attend one of our workshops (or our longer courses) in both photography and photo-editing.

If you're at the beginning of your photography journey you might find this one-day introduction, just what you're looking for:

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer!  Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

Want something more?
Alternatively, If you want a course that raises the bar, something to immerse yourself in for a whole year, you'll want to join our Photography Masterclass.  Run twice a year, with intakes during Spring and Autumn, it is our core workshop.

• The Photography Masterclass (one year course)

Students on the Photography Masterclass will build a solid foundation of technical and creative skills .  They will learn not only how their cameras work and how to shoot with a creative eye, but there are modules on photographing people, working with flash, shooting landscapes, macro photography, as well as two modules on editing.

This is a ten-module photography course with photo-assignments between sessions.  Each session lasts three hours and will include time to examine assignment images and take part in practicals (where appropriate)

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Episode 10 of the 10-part series looking at Photography Basics.

In this final episode I take a look at the editing options for your photography.  Editing is an interesting subject and people often have strong views on its pros & cons.

For most of us, editing allows us to produce images which are more eye-catching.  We remove unwanted objects, we balance shadows and highlights, tweak colours and adjust the final shape of the image with cropping. 

If you would like to know more about editing your own photos, you will find this edition of Tog-Talk very interesting.


Links to editing software mentioned in this edition of Tog-Talk.

Used mainly professionals and advanced amateurs 

• Adobe Photoshop & Lightroom Plan
• Capture One 

Beginners Editing Software

• Photoshop Elements
• Affinity
• Luminar
• Gimp (free)

This isn't the entire range of editors on the market, but they are perhaps the most well-known / capable. 


Improving your photography
I really appreciate you taking the time to listen to this broadcast and I hope that you have found it interesting as well as entertaining.   If you're looking to imporove your photography and you live close enough to our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire, you could attend one of our workshops (or our longer courses) in both photography and photo-editing.

If you're at the beginning of your photography journey you might find this one-day introduction, just what you're looking for:

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer!  Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

Want something more?
Alternatively, If you want a course that raises the bar, something to immerse yourself in for a whole year, you'll want to join our Photography Masterclass.  Run twice a year, with intakes dur

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Five of my top tips for photographing people

I've been photographing people for a long time.  I started doing it almost as soon as I bought my first 35mm film camera.  In my home town of Brighton (on the south coast of England) I cut my teeth on capturing ordinary people going about their daily lives down on the beach and on Brighton's busy, bohemian streets. 

In later years I moved into the studio and I had several years shooting weddings, families and corporate headshots.  You pick up some tricks when you shoot as much as I did,  and on today's Tog-Talk I'm going to share my thoughts on five really helpful things to either avoid... or things that are essential if you want to take good images.

There is great advice here for newbies with cameras, but I'm also sure there will be things to learn for photographers who have been shooting for a while.

Need more..?
If you want to know a bit more, check out my Tog-Talk website which usually has photos and additional words of guidance: www.tog-talk.com


Improving your photography
I really appreciate you taking the time to listen to this broadcast and I hope that you have found it interesting as well as entertaining.   If you're looking to imporove your photography and you live close enough to our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire, you could attend one of our workshops (or our longer courses) in both photography and photo-editing.

If you're at the beginning of your photography journey you might find this one-day introduction, just what you're looking for:

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer!  Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

Want something more?
Alternatively, If you want a course that raises the bar, something to immerse yourself in for a whole year, you'll want to join our Photography Masterclass.  Run twice a year, with intakes during Spring and Autumn, it is our core workshop.

• The Photography Masterclass (one year course)

Students on the Photography Masterclass will build a solid foundation of technical and creative skills .  They will learn not only how their cameras work and how to shoot with a creative eye, but there are

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

For several years I've been exploring the subject of the journey we all embark on as photographers.   It really is just like a journey with a beginning and a middle, but it has no end (it goes on forever).  It has all the qualities of a great adventure with highs and lows, it has pitfalls and moments of elation.  And like real journeys, some elements take a long time to get anywhere and others are reached in the blink of an eye.

When photographers get together and start talking about their own experiences it's amazing how many similarities we share.  Who hasn't had frustrations, who hasn't had moments when they felt like giving up?    Sharing stories is a sobering exercise that puts our problems into perspective.  We realise that we're not alone and that everyone else has (at one time or another) been through exactly the same challenges. 

In this episode of Tog-Talk Dr Simon Ruffle talks about his Photographer's journey and we explore a range of side issues that examine photography from the traveller's perspective.


Mentioned in the Conversation:

Link to Topaz Labs software
This is excellent software which goes way beyond what Photoshop or Lightroom are capable of in terms of getting rid of unwanted ISO noise.  It uses AI (artificial intelligence), which has been trained on millions of images.  With this knowledge, it removes unwanted noise from your photos and sharpens all the soft, blurry bits for you.  It's a very clever piece of software.

Improving your photography
I really appreciate you taking the time to listen to this broadcast and I hope that you have found it interesting as well as entertaining.   If you're looking to improve your photography and you live close enough to our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire, you could attend one of our workshops (or our longer courses) in both photography and photo editing.

If you're at the beginning of your photography journey you might find this one-day introduction, just what you're looking for:

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer!  Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

Want something more?
Alternatively, If you want a course that raises the bar, something to immerse yourself in for a whole year, you'll want to

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Having taken up photography just a few years ago on retirement, Alec completely threw himself into it and has a fascinating tale of rapid progress.

Abandoning his Sony camera for an extensive Nikon system, Alec has had a roller coaster experience - culminating in mentoring under one of the world's greatest photographers.

In this episode of Tog Talk,  Alec Grant tells us about his photographer's Journey

More to read at tog-talk.com


Test Your Knowledge
Test your photography knowledge with the free Photography Assessment Tool

Improving your photography
I really appreciate you taking the time to listen to this broadcast and I hope that you have found it interesting as well as entertaining.   If you're looking to improve your photography and you live close enough to our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire, you could attend one of our workshops (or our longer courses) in both photography and photo editing.

If you're at the beginning of your photography journey you might find this one-day introduction, just what you're looking for:

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer!  Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

Want something more?
Alternatively, If you want a course that raises the bar, something to immerse yourself in for a whole year, you'll want to join our Photography Masterclass.  Run twice a year, with intakes during Spring and Autumn, it is our core workshop.

• The Photography Masterclass (one-year course)

Students on the Photography Masterclass will build a solid foundation of technical and creative skills.  They will learn not only how their cameras work and how to shoot with a creative eye, but there are modules on photographing people, working with flash, shooting landscapes, macro photography, as well as two modules on editing.

This is a ten-module photography course with photo-assignments between sessions.  Each session lasts three hours and will include time to examine assignment images and take part in practicals (where appropriate).

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

What would you compare your photography journey to?   

Has your growth and experience behind the camera been like a rocket or has it been more like a snail?  Are you completely committed to following your creative journey - or is it a bit spasmodic? 

Good days and bad days?

In this week's Tog-Talk, I am joined by hobbyist-photographer Sandy Borrowdale who describes her photography as sometimes being a bit like her going to the gym.

Originally recorded two months ago, back in May

Click above to listen, or visit my dedicated podcast website tog-talk.com for more details and background information.


Test Your Knowledge
Test your photography knowledge with the free Photography Assessment Tool

Improving your photography
I really appreciate you taking the time to listen to this broadcast and I hope that you have found it interesting as well as entertaining.   If you're looking to improve your photography and you live close enough to our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire, you could attend one of our workshops (or our longer courses) in both photography and photo editing.

If you're at the beginning of your photography journey you might find this one-day introduction, just what you're looking for:

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer!  Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

Want something more?
Alternatively, If you want a course that raises the bar, something to immerse yourself in for a whole year, you'll want to join our Photography Masterclass.  Run twice a year, with intakes during Spring and Autumn, it is our core workshop.

• The Photography Masterclass (one-year course)

Students on the Photography Masterclass will build a solid foundation of technical and creative skills.  They will learn not only how their cameras work and how to shoot with a creative eye, but there are modules on photographing people, working with flash, shooting landscapes, macro photography, as well as two modules on editing.

This is a ten-module photography course with photo-assignments between sessions.  Each session lasts three hours and wi

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Tog-Talk Episode 29
With this week's guest David Emery

In the first Tog-Talk podcast to be shot in video (Watch it on YouTube or Vimeo), Kevin Ahronson interviews David Emery, a photographer he has known for four years. 

David shares his journey into photography, which began with inspiration from his grandfather who had a cine camera and a 35mm camera. David got his first SLR, a Praktica, on his 14th birthday and started with film photography before transitioning into digital photography. Over the years, he used various cameras, including Canon's 350D DSLR and later the Canon 80D. He eventually adopted the mirrorless trend with the Canon EOS R.

David is a generalist photographer, not bound to a specific niche. He enjoys capturing moments and candid shots.

His technical knowledge on cameras has grown significantly over time, and he credits Kevin's masterclass for enhancing his understanding of the process of taking a photo.


Test Your Knowledge
Test your photography knowledge with the free Photography Assessment Tool

Improving your photography
I really appreciate you taking the time to listen to this broadcast and I hope that you have found it interesting as well as entertaining.   If you're looking to improve your photography and you live close enough to our training centre in Fleet, Hampshire, you could attend one of our workshops (or our longer courses) in both photography and photo editing.

If you're at the beginning of your photography journey you might find this one-day introduction, just what you're looking for:

• Introduction To Photography (1-day Workshop)

Run four times a year, this one-day photography workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move from simply being a camera-owner… to becoming a real photographer!  Whether you're photographing your kids, snapping your holidays or you're hoping to progress your photography to a more creative level, you'll still need a solid grasp of the basics.

Want something more?
Alternatively, If you want a course that raises the bar, something to immerse yourself in for a whole year, you'll want to join our Photography Masterclass.  Run twice a year, with intakes during Spring and Autumn, it is our core workshop.

• The Photography Masterclass (one-year course)

Students on the Photography Masterclass will build a solid foundation of technical and creative s

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Tog-Talk returns after a 12 month gap.  

This time, Kevin is joined by new co-host Kelly Perrin.

Imagine a casual conversation between two passionate photographers, sharing tips, stories, and insights about the art of capturing images. That's Tog-Talk. Hosted by Kevin Ahronson from Hampshire School of Photography and his co-host Kelly Perrin, Tog-Talk is more than just a podcast; it's a community for photographers of all levels.

From technical advice to personal experiences, in this episode, Tog-Talk covers a wide range of topics. Want to know how to transition from a hobbyist to a professional photographer? Kelly's got you covered. Struggling with imposter syndrome? You're not alone! Tog-Talk dives deep into this common challenge, offering practical advice and encouragement.

As female photographers in a male-dominated industry, Kelly and Kevin understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with their profession. They share their experiences and discuss the importance of creating more inclusive spaces for women in photography.

Kelly's talks about how her new photography studio in Fleet offers a welcoming and affordable space for amateur photographers to practice and develop their skills. It's a place where photographers can feel comfortable and supported, without the pressure of being in a professional environment.

Submit your questions:
Listeners are encouraged to submit questions, which will be answered on air.  Go to the Tog-Talk website and click on the microphone icon (bottom right)  

Female photographers are invited to share their experiences and potentially participate in women-only workshops, fostering a supportive community.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, Tog-Talk offers valuable content to inspire and educate. It's a place to connect with other photographers, learn new techniques, and celebrate the art of capturing images. So tune in and join the Tog-Talk community!

Free online community for amateur photographers in Hampshire (also Dorset, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Surrey and West Sussex).  Hampshire Photography Network on Facebook

Hampshire School of Photography for live, face to face workshops and courses.   Online courses coming very soon!

All other communications should be via support@gohsp.com

APOLOGIES
I mentioned in the conversation that we would be listening to a listener's question at the end of this episode.  I'm afraid we ran out of time and so I will be ans

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets of creating stunning bokeh and elevate your photography game with our latest episode of Tog Talk! I'm Kevin Ahronson from the Hampshire School of Photography, and today, I'm tackling your most burning questions about photography. Prompted by David Emery's curiosity, we dive into what bokeh truly is, why it has skyrocketed in popularity in the digital age, and how it can dramatically improve the focus and quality of your images. Tune in to discover the fine art of achieving that dreamy background blur, master the nuances of controlling depth of field, and understand how your choice of lens and shooting distances can make all the difference.

But wait, there's more! We'll also be reflecting on whether the craze for bokeh is eclipsing other vital photographic techniques. Are we losing the art of environmental portraits that capture the essence of a scene? Together, we'll explore the pressures photographers face to stick to trends and the importance of staying true to your unique style. Whether you're a beginner eager to make your photos stand out from smartphone snaps or a seasoned pro looking to refine your craft, this discussion promises to be both enlightening and inspiring. Don't forget to submit your questions for future episodes—your voice is what makes Tog Talk truly special!

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Host: Kevin Ahronson, Founder of Hampshire School of Photography
Co-Host: Kelly Perring

Episode Summary:

In this thought-provoking episode, Kevin Ahronson and his co-host, Kelly Perrin, dive into one of the most controversial topics in photography today: the role of Artificial Intelligence. With humor, insight, and a touch of personal reflection, Kevin and Kelly explore whether AI is a powerful tool for photographers or a potential threat to the craft they love.

•Kelly’s Latest Projects: Kelly shares exciting updates from her photography studio, including mini sessions, a unique transitional photo shoot, and an upcoming photography competition for the Hampshire Photography Network.

•AI as a Game Changer: Kevin and Kelly talk candidly about how AI has transformed the way photographers manage their businesses—from automating text generation to enhancing marketing efforts—and how both use AI in their work.

•AI in Photo Editing: Kevin explains how AI tools like Adobe Firefly, Topaz, and Lightroom’s new features have saved him hours of editing while maintaining creative integrity. He contrasts the efficiencies AI provides with the ethical dilemmas it presents.

•Ethical Dilemmas and Real-Life Impacts: Kelly shares her personal experience with AI-generated images, including the unexpected emotional impact of seeing “flawless” AI versions of herself. The duo dives deep into the societal concerns of AI-generated beauty standards, misinformation, and the influence on young generations.

•AI in Competition: The conversation turns to the controversy of AI-generated images in photography competitions, referencing the infamous Sony World Photography Award incident, where an AI-created image won a prestigious prize.

•The Future of Photography: Kevin shares his predictions on how AI will evolve in the photography industry over the next 5 to 10 years, touching on the resurgence of film photography and the enduring human love for simple, tactile creative processes.

•Advice for AI Experimenters: Kevin offers practical wisdom for photographers curious about experimenting with AI in their workflow—encouraging moderation and mindful application.

Memorable Quotes:

•“AI is like a good single malt whiskey—enjoy it, but in moderation!” – Kevin

•“We love our technology, but we get romantic about the old stuff.” – Kevin

•“It was such a sense of achievement when that first film image appeared. You can’t duplicate that with digital.” – Kelly

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Ever wondered how a simple filter could transform your photography?

In this solo episode of Tog-Talk, I dive into the world of polarising filters, answering a listener’s question about their usage and benefits. I explore how polarising filters work, why they’re essential for many photographers, and share personal experiences that highlight their impact on image quality.

Alongside the technical explanation, I reminisce about my early days with Olympus film cameras and offer practical advice for both beginners and experienced photographers alike.

Discover the magic behind polarising filters and how they can elevate your shots. I break down the evolution from linear to circular polarisers and how these filters can drastically enhance your images by reducing reflections and enriching skies.

Final Thoughts:

I wrap up the episode with a reminder about the power of polarising filters for both landscape and portrait photography, encouraging you to explore the creative possibilities they offer. I also hint at future episodes where I’ll cover more technical topics in-depth.

Next Episode: Stay tuned for more photography insights and the return of my co-host Kelly!

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Discover the secrets to mastering photography lighting as we host an engaging debate between Kevin Ahronson from Hampshire School of Photography and Kelly Perrin from the Big Ambition Company.

Struggling to choose between natural light and flash? Learn how Kevin transitioned from a natural light purist - to a flash enthusiast, after a remarkable encounter with a newspaper photographer. Kelly, however, champions the beauty of natural light, even in the most challenging settings like theatres and conference halls. Their debate offers insights that are invaluable whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your photography journey.

This episode doesn't just stop at theory; we dive into practical tips for using both natural and artificial light in various scenarios. From capturing candid moments at weddings to balancing ambient and artificial light during the first dance, Kevin and Kelly reveal their personal experiences and hacks.

Enhance your photography with advanced techniques discussed in this episode. From adjusting white balance settings and using CTO gels to elevate your sunrise and sunset portrait shots... to mastering clamshell lighting for studio portraits, Kevin and Kelly provide a treasure trove of tips.

Learn how to avoid unflattering shadows, achieve beautiful, professional-looking photos by reflecting or diffusing light.  Don’t miss out on this comprehensive guide packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories to help you take your photography to new heights.

Photography Masterclass Program: A Part-time One Year Course

The Photography Masterclass at Hampshire School of Photography is an essential course for new photographers, offering a comprehensive, year-long program that builds strong foundations in both technical skills and creative vision. With 10 modules covering everything from camera mastery to composition, portrait, and landscape photography, it immerses students in a supportive learning environment.

Find out more: https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com/one-year-masterclass/

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Welcome to another episode of Tog-Talk: Photographers in Conversation!

I’m Kevin Ahronson, founder of the Hampshire School of Photography, and this week, it’s a solo episode where I’ll be answering a listener question.

Just as a quick reminder, every other week, I fly solo, diving into the photography questions you send in, while on alternating weeks, I’m joined by my fantastic co-host, Kelly Perrin from the Big Ambition Photography Company. Kelly runs a local studio in Fleet and together we co-sponsor the Hampshire Photography Network, a thriving Facebook community of amateur photographers.

Today, I’ll be tackling a fantastic listener question about shooting in low light situations... should you underexpose in-camera and brighten in Lightroom, or let the ISO creep up and deal with the grain in post? 

I’ll break down the differences between amplifying a signal in-camera versus brightening it in post-processing and explore which approach yields the best results.

As always, I’ve done my best to keep things as simple and practical as possible, although some subjects, by their nature, can be a bit more technical than others (this could be one of them). So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in! 

Be sure to stick around until the end, where I’ll share some exciting updates about our upcoming Photography Masterclass, workshops, and free Photographer’s Evenings.

Now, let’s get into it!

Photo Studio
Looking for an inexpensive, amateur-friendly photography studio in Hampshire?  Check out Kelly's Photography Studio in Fleet (Hampshire)

Sharpen your photos
Topaz Photo AI, it really is the best AI-driven sharpening & noise reduction software out there. Use this link to download Topaz.  You won't pay any more... but I will receive a small commission. Thank you for your support.  

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Welcome to Tog Talk, the podcast where photographers come together for insightful and often humorous discussions on all things photography. I’m your host, Kevin Ahronson, from the Hampshire School of Photography, and today, I’m joined by my brilliant co-host, and commercial photographer, Kelly Perrin.

If you’re tuning in for the first time, Tog Talk is all about photographers in conversation, whether you’re a seasoned pro or someone just getting started with your camera.

This is episode 36, and if you’re familiar with the show, you know that Kelly and I meet every fortnight to dive into the topics that matter to photographers. On the alternate weeks, I host a solo episode where I answer listener questions, sharing insights and tips on everything from camera settings to creative techniques. So, there’s always something new to look forward to!

In our last episode together, we had a fantastic conversation about light (Flash vs Natural light), which sparked some great discussions in our Facebook group.

Kelly, I know you’re still glowing from all the natural light love! But today, we’re taking on another subject that never fails to get people talking: RAW versus JPEG.

This age-old debate has been a cornerstone of digital photography, and it continues to divide opinions. Some photographers insist on shooting RAW for its incredible flexibility in post-processing, while others stand by JPEG for its convenience and speed. So, which is really better? Are you giving up too much control by sticking with JPEG, or are RAW files only necessary for certain types of photography?

In today’s episode, we’ll break it all down. Kelly and I will explore the differences between these two formats, weigh the pros and cons, and help you decide when each format is best for your needs. Whether you’re someone who wants to push the limits in post-processing or prefer a quicker, more streamlined workflow, there’s something here for you. We’ll even discuss how RAW files can rescue tricky shots in difficult lighting, but also when JPEG might just be the smarter choice—especially for fast-paced environments or when you need to share images quickly.

So, grab your camera, settle in, and let’s jump into the RAW versus JPEG debate. This is Tog Talk, and we’re ready to help you make sense of it all.

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Tog-Talk Episode 37: Going Manual

Host: Kevin Ahronson, Founder of Hampshire School of Photography

In this solo episode of Tog-Talk, Kevin Ahronson addresses a common question for beginner photographers: “How do I move from auto mode to manual mode?” Kevin, with over five decades of photography experience and a seasoned photography teacher, breaks down the basics of manual shooting.

Kevin explains that while auto mode is great for beginners, manual mode offers far more control. The challenge is in understanding the “exposure triangle” — the relationship between aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Kevin carefully walks listeners through each element, illustrating how they work together to achieve correct exposure. He recommends learning in stages, suggesting that aperture priority mode is an ideal stepping stone for photographers looking to gradually transition to manual.

Throughout the episode, Kevin emphasises the importance of mastering the camera and choosing the right mode for the job. While manual mode gives full control, aperture priority is often quicker and ideal for many scenarios. Kevin shares personal anecdotes from his years of shooting, including situations where manual mode is indispensable, like wildlife photography, where consistency is key.

Towards the end, Kevin recommends his Introduction to Photography Workshop on November 9th, 2024, and discusses his Photography Masterclass, a year-long course designed to develop both technical skills and creative vision.

Key Points:

•The exposure triangle: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO

•The benefits of aperture priority mode as a middle ground

•Situations where manual mode excels

•Upcoming workshops and masterclasses at Hampshire School of Photography

Links:

•Introduction to Photography Workshop

•Photography Masterclass

Join the Hampshire Photography Network on Facebook for more tips and discussions!

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Show Notes for Tog Talk – Episode: DSLR vs Mirrorless Cameras

In this episode of Tog Talk, Kelly and Kevin delve into the world of camera evolution, discussing the ever-popular debate: DSLR versus mirrorless cameras. With an autumn chill in the air, they warmly welcome listeners into a candid and humorous conversation that balances technical insight with playful banter.

The duo begins by exploring the functional differences between DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Kevin outlines how DSLRs use a traditional mirror system to reflect light through the viewfinder, providing a direct view through the lens. Mirrorless cameras, however, rely on electronic viewfinders (EVF) to preview the image, enabling users to see exposure changes in real time. For professionals and beginners alike, this feature can significantly reduce the need for ‘chimping’—the habit of constantly checking the back of the camera for correct exposure.

They discuss the ergonomic and practical benefits of mirrorless cameras, particularly for long shooting sessions, as Kevin shares how switching to lighter Fuji mirrorless cameras transformed his wedding photography experience. Additionally, Kelly reflects on the frustrations of manual exposure adjustments and how mirrorless technology might have saved her time on recent headshots and outdoor group sessions.

Listeners will also learn about the impact of mirrorless technology on low-light performance, the expanded focusing capabilities, and the extensive range of high-quality lenses now available. Kevin offers invaluable advice to those new to photography, recommending that beginners start with affordable DSLRs before moving to the more complex mirrorless systems.

Through laughs, anecdotes, and practical insights, Kelly and Kevin bring clarity to a complex topic, helping photographers make informed choices about their gear. Tune in for a blend of expertise, relatable experiences, and a dose of nostalgia for DSLRs, as Tog Talk celebrates the art and tech of photography.

Photography Masterclass
Fancy joining the one-year Masterclass program?  The next Photography Masterclass starts in January, there are still a few places left.  Check out the website for more information:
https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com/one-year-masterclass/

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Welcome to Tog-Talk! I’m Kevin Ahronson from the Hampshire School of Photography, and I’m thrilled to have you with me for this solo episode. Just a couple of weeks away from my 70th birthday, I still feel like that young photographer who picked up his first camera back in 1969. Age might have added some grey hairs (and perhaps a bit more wisdom!), but my passion for photography—and teaching it—hasn’t dimmed one bit. In fact, it’s only grown stronger. There’s something magical about guiding photographers as they move beyond auto settings, mastering their cameras to become true artists behind the lens.

Today’s episode is inspired by a question from Chris Taylor, a keen member of our fast-growing Hampshire Photography Network on Facebook, which just hit the 1,000-member mark! This milestone reminds me of the thrill and privilege of fostering a community of photographers who come together to learn, share, and push their skills further. Chris’s question taps into a common challenge: as you move from auto to manual, how do you know which camera settings to adjust first? Many photographers, especially beginners, wrestle with this when trying to control motion, depth of field, and exposure.

As we dive into this topic, we explore the exposure triangle: shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. Each setting affects your image in its own way, and learning how to use them creatively is essential. Chris recently found himself at a lively children’s party, where a slow shutter speed led to some blurry shots of fast-moving kids. He also struggled with exposure shifts when moving from indoors to bright outdoor light. Sound familiar? This is where understanding the purpose of each setting—and knowing which one to prioritize—comes in handy.

One Year Masterclass Program
To find out more about my one-year masterclass in photography, click on the link below. My 10th master class starts in January and, as I write, this half of the places I've already gone.  Don't hesitate or you might miss your chance.
https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com/one-year-masterclass/

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Welcome to Episode 40 of TOG Talk, the podcast where our intrepid pair of photographers gather for a lively mix of banter, insight, and a sprinkling of wisdom from decades behind the lens. This week, hosts Kevin Ahronson, founder of Hampshire School of Photography (with 55 years of snapping under his belt), and Kelly Perrin, commercial photographer and studio owner, dive headfirst into a debate that’s divided photographers for generations: prime lenses versus zoom lenses.

Packed with witty exchanges, gentle teasing, and a few playful attempts at UK dialects (with a dash of Russian thrown in for good measure), this episode will help you finally understanding what makes these lenses tick—and which one is right for your style. Both Kevin and Kelly have their personal favourite lenses, any guesses? Will Kevin’s decades of experience lead to the ultimate lens choice, or does Kelly have the edge? You’ll have to tune in as the big reveals unfold during the “focal length face-off”!


MASTERCLASS
Looking to take your photography to the next level? Kevin Ahronson’s One-Year Photography Masterclass is the ultimate creative journey! His tenth Masterclass starts this January (2025).  It's a comprehensive course blending technical expertise with a strong focus on developing your photographer’s eye. Learn from Kevin’s 55+ years of experience, alongside a passionate group of like-minded photographers. With in-person sessions, personalised guidance, and new modules on black-and-white photography, this is more than a course—it’s a transformative experience. https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com/one-year-masterclass/

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Episode Overview:

In this week’s solo episode, Kevin tackles one of the most common challenges in photography: how to correctly expose a subject in front of a bright background, such as a child standing by a window. Kevin shares his 55+ years of expertise to break down this issue with actionable solutions for photographers of all levels.

Key Topics Discussed:

1.The Backlit Problem:

•Why cameras struggle to expose for both a bright background and a darker subject.

•Examples of challenging scenarios, from windows to caves.

2.Seven Solutions to Backlit Challenges:

•Exposure Compensation: Adjust your camera’s settings to brighten your subject.

•Spot Metering: Use precise metering to expose for your subject’s face.

•Auto Exposure Lock (AEL): Lock exposure on your subject and recompose.

•Reflectors: Bounce light onto your subject for natural illumination.

•Using Flash: Balance natural light with flash, including on- and off-camera techniques.

•HDR Photography: Merge multiple exposures to capture both highlights and shadows.

•Photoshop Techniques: Combine two images to perfectly balance foreground and background.

3.Mirrorless Cameras: How their real-time exposure previews simplify manual adjustments.

Special Announcement:

Kevin introduces exciting updates to his Photography Masterclass, now celebrating its 10th intake. With enhanced creativity modules and a new focus on black-and-white photography, this one-year course is the ultimate journey for passionate photographers. Limited places are available—visit GoHSP.com for details.

Key Takeaway:

Mastering backlit photography is about prioritising your subject and making creative choices. Whether you use exposure compensation, flash, or post-processing, there’s a solution for every photographer.

Links & Resources:

•Photography Masterclass Details: GoHSP.com

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Welcome to TOG TALK, where we dive into the heart of photographic expression.

In this episode, we embark on a fascinating exploration of the photographer's mind, investigating why some naturally gravitate toward technical mastery while others flourish in creative expression. Through engaging discussions (some of them quite hysterical!) with my co-host - commercial photographer Kelly Perrin, we examine the influences that have tremendous impact on the type of photographers we are.

We delve deep into the psychological and developmental factors that create "technical" versus "creative" photographers. Drawing from years of teaching experience at Hampshire School of Photography, we share insights into how childhood experiences, professional background, and even brain hemisphere dominance might influence a photographer's natural inclinations.

Our conversation delves into the fascinating journey that shapes each photographer's unique approach to their craft. We explore the various influences and experiences that mould our perspective, technical abilities, and creative vision.

Listen to this week’s Tog Talk to discover the factors that might have influenced your own photographic style.

Join us as we challenge assumptions about whether these tendencies are fixed or fluid, and discover how photographers can develop both technical prowess and creative vision, regardless of their starting point. Through real-world examples and personal stories, we illuminate the path to becoming a well-rounded photographer who can seamlessly blend technical excellence with creative inspiration.

Whether you identify as a "numbers person" who loves the technical aspects of photography or a "creative soul" who shoots from the heart, this episode offers valuable insights into understanding and expanding your photographic approach.

Photography Masterclass

Add the time of recording this episode, I have just one place left on the forthcoming Photography Masterclass.  Masterclass is a one year (in person) course starting in January running till the end of the year. If you want to find out more click the link: https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com/

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Episode Overview:

Kevin Ahronson and Kelly Perrin go head-to-head in a lively (and slightly caffeinated) debate about black-and-white versus colour photography. From the evocative power of monochrome to the vibrant allure of colour, the duo explores where each shines—and where it might falter. Expect playful banter, surprising insights, and even a discussion about the transformative powers of marshmallows and sunglasses.

Key Moments & Highlights

1.The Great S’mores Debate

•Before we even get to photography, Kevin learns about the art of s’mores. Kelly shares her love for toasted marshmallows, and Kevin wonders if he’s missed a key life experience.

•Pro tip: Fire, marshmallows, and chocolate biscuits are essential ingredients.

2.The Joys of Black-and-White Photography

•Kevin argues that black and white can make a photo feel more “serious,” “arty,” and emotionally powerful.

•He shares how shooting in monochrome helps you focus on contrasts, patterns, and textures, making you a stronger photographer.

•Top Tip: Wear sunglasses to help spot great black-and-white compositions!

3.The Case for Colour

•Kelly champions vibrant hues, noting that colour brings energy and life to her favourite shots.

•She highlights how autumn leaves, vibrant wildlife, and bold sunsets feel incomplete without their natural colour palette.

•Best Quote: “I want the robin’s red chest to scream at me. Black and white can’t scream!”

4.Where They Agree (Sort of)

•Black and white: Great for moody portraits, dramatic street photography, and fixing tricky lighting scenarios.

•Colour: Perfect for wildlife, landscapes, and capturing the full vibrancy of life.

•Both: Photography’s true beauty lies in its versatility—no need to pick one!

5.The Creative Process

•Kevin reveals his preference for abstract, high-contrast black-and-white shots that lean into the extremes of light and shadow.

•Kelly shares her love for capturing emotions in colour and the satisfaction of creating images that feel alive.

6.Wildlife Photography Showdown

•Kelly: “Wildlife is all about the colour—kingfishers are fast, but their blue feathers are worth the effort!”

•Kevin: “Wildlife can be abstract and artistic too. It’s not about the bird; it’s about the photograph!”

Final Thoughts:

•Kevin: “If I had to choose, I’d pick black and white for its drama and depth.”

•Kelly: “For me, it’s colour all the way—life’s too vibrant not to capture it!”

•Both: “Good thing we don’t have to pick!”

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

In this opening episode, I get to talk with one of my longest-suffering students, Steve Myers.  Steve has been on just about every photography workshop I've ever run and his eagerness to learn shows no sign of diminishing.

For us, this episode is an experiment with a bit of fun - enabling me in particular, to explore the process of podcast production.

Beyond this, a much more expansive and sophisticated podcast series will hopefully grow.

I hope you enjoy it.


Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundations in (amongst other things): photography theory, composition, portrait & landscape photography, working with flash, macro photography and editing in Lightroom and Photoshop.  Some of our courses go even deeper… to stretch students with challenging assignments, forcing them out of their comfort zones.

Founder of HSP, Kevin Ahronson, also offers private mentoring to a small number of people each year, as his busy schedule allows

Check out our website for more information about courses, all of which are run at our training centre.

Website: gohsp.com

Test your knowledge
Free Viewfinder Workshops

Blog:  The Photography Teacher
Facebook: Hampshire School of Photography

Contact us on email: support@gohsp.com

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

In this session I talk to Masterclass student Jeremy Auton about what choices he should make when taking his camera and lenses overseas on holiday.

How much gear should we take with us?  Too much and it could become a burden to carry, too little and we could miss important shots.  To make it more complicated in his case, he was going on two very different holidays which required different approaches.

Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundations in (amongst other things): photography theory, composition, portrait & landscape photography, working with flash, macro photography and editing in Lightroom and Photoshop.  Some of our courses go even deeper… to stretch students with challenging assignments, forcing them out of their comfort zones.

Founder of HSP, Kevin Ahronson, also offers private mentoring to a small number of people each year, as his busy schedule allows

Check out our website for more information about courses, all of which are run at our training centre.

Website: gohsp.com

Test your knowledge
Free Viewfinder Workshops

Blog:  The Photography Teacher
Facebook: Hampshire School of Photography

Contact us on email: support@gohsp.com

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Agi was a student who came to me for a year's private mentoring. 

These days she works as a professional photographer whilst at the same time being a busy mum of three young children. 

She recalls how she stepped out of her comfort zone to embrace her photography and now is reaping the reward shooting families, children and weddings.

Agi's website


Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundations in (amongst other things): photography theory, composition, portrait & landscape photography, working with flash, macro photography and editing in Lightroom and Photoshop.  Some of our courses go even deeper… to stretch students with challenging assignments, forcing them out of their comfort zones.

Founder of HSP, Kevin Ahronson, also offers private mentoring to a small number of people each year, as his busy schedule allows

Check out our website for more information about courses, all of which are run at our training centre.

Website: gohsp.com

Test your knowledge
Free Viewfinder Workshops

Blog:  The Photography Teacher
Facebook: Hampshire School of Photography

Contact us on email: support@gohsp.com

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

We sponsored an evening recently with a bunch of photographers who are currently working as professionals, semi-professionals and a few others the were thinking of going pro.

In 2020 we are planning to start a one-year course for professionals who want to improve both their photography skills and also their business skills.  The conversations that took place were quite insightful as we listened to what was on their minds.

I was surprised to hear about many of the fears most of them shared and this podcast looks into those fears, offering insights from my own experiences over the last few decades.

At the end I briefly talk about a one-day workshop I'm running in February for anyone who seriously wants to understand their camera and take control of it.  So many camera-owners are still shooting in AUTO mode and would love to break free.

Check out Introduction To Photography at http://bit.ly/HSP-ITPFEB01


Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundations in (amongst other things): photography theory, composition, portrait & landscape photography, working with flash, macro photography and editing in Lightroom and Photoshop.  Some of our courses go even deeper… to stretch students with challenging assignments, forcing them out of their comfort zones.

Founder of HSP, Kevin Ahronson, also offers private mentoring to a small number of people each year, as his busy schedule allows

Check out our website for more information about courses, all of which are run at our training centre.

Website: gohsp.com

Test your knowledge
Free Viewfinder Workshops

Blog:  The Photography Teacher
Facebook: Hampshire School of Photography

Contact us on email: support@gohsp.com

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Tog Talk this week meets with Trish, a young lady from India who I've been mentoring for the last six months.  She has a great sense of humour and she absolutely loved watching my reaction when she brought in two really great questions.

1. Which type of camera would I recommend to a photographer - a crop frame mirrorless or a full frame DSLR?
2. When planning a concept photograph, what comes first, the location or the concept?

During the conversation, a couple of photos were referred to:

Photoshoot with Zoe and the leaf
Photoshoot with girl and the lamp


One day workshop
To find more out about the 'Introduction To Photography' one-day workshop, click here

Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundations in (amongst other things): photography theory, composition, portrait & landscape photography, working with flash, macro photography and editing in Lightroom and Photoshop.  Some of our courses go even deeper… to stretch students with challenging assignments, forcing them out of their comfort zones.

Founder of HSP, Kevin Ahronson, also offers private mentoring to a small number of people each year, as his busy schedule allows

Check out our website for more information about courses, all of which are run at our training centre.

Website: gohsp.com

Test your knowledge
Free Viewfinder Workshops

Blog:  The Photography Teacher
Facebook: Hampshire School of Photography

Contact us on email: support@gohsp.com

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

In this week's Tog Talk I address the subject of how to take tack-sharp photos.

One of the most common complaints I hear from new camera owners is that their photos just aren't sharp enough.  You'd think that when someone spends hundreds of pounds (sometimes thousands) on a high quality camera, the resulting photos would at least be nice and sharp. 

If only.

Avoiding blurred images is not just about knowing how to focus your lens, there are lots of other things to consider. 

Further explanation
To help you better understand some of the issues discussed, check out my blog, The Photography Teacher

• Avoid Blurry Photos Part.1
• Avoid Blurry Photos Part.2
• Avoid Blurry Photos Part.3

Want to master your camera?
If you found this week's Tog Talk interesting and you're now feeling inspired to improve your own photography, why now register for our next Introduction To Photography one-day workshop. 

We run this four times a year, it's immensely popular as a photography foundation course, laying down strong foundations upon which to build your photographic journey.

Click here for more details

Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundations in (amongst other things): photography theory, composition, portrait & landscape photography, working with flash, macro photography and editing in Lightroom and Photoshop.  Some of our courses go even deeper… to stretch students with challenging assignments, forcing them out of their comfort zones.

Founder of HSP, Kevin Ahronson, also offers private mentoring to a small number of people each year, as his busy schedule allows

Check out our website for more information about courses, all of which are run at our training centre.

Website: gohsp.com

Test your knowledge
Free Viewfinder Workshops

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Andy Teo ( otherwise known to many as Photocillin), is a highly talented photographer specialising in fashion style photography and, more recently, has had a great deal of success working with musicians, shooting concerts, backstage and album covers.

In this edition of Tog Talk, Andy talks about his experience shooting models and musicians with some great tips for photographers who would like to get into this kind of work.

I promised to post links for some go Andy's work. Try these out.

500px (over 13,000 followers)
Photocillin Photography - incredible images

Purpleport
Some of Photocillin's stunning model images.  Purple Port is a great source of models too.

Flickr (over 4000 followers) It's Flickr, say no more

Instagram (over 2000 followers)

Facebook (over 1500 followers)

Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundations in (amongst other things): photography theory, composition, portrait & landscape photography, working with flash, macro photography and editing in Lightroom and Photoshop.  Some of our courses go even deeper… to stretch students with challenging assignments, forcing them out of their comfort zones.

Founder of HSP, Kevin Ahronson, also offers private mentoring to a small number of people each year, as his busy schedule allows

Check out our website for more information about courses, all of which are run at our training centre.

Website: gohsp.com

Test your knowledge
Free Viewfinder Workshops

Blog:  The Photography Teacher
Facebook: Hampshire School of Photography

Contact us on email: support@gohsp.com

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/

Send us a text

Having Matthew Williams on this episode of Tog Talk was a double whammy for me.  Not only is he a keen wildlife photographer, but he's also the brains behind the Hampshire School of Photography (HSP) website. 

Matt talks to me about some of the innovative ideas behind our online photography assessment tool and the new Portfolio Suite for show-casing our students' work.  He's also got some great stories about his experiences out in the field photographing kingfishers, brown hares and white-tailed sea eagles.

Matthew Williams website

Hampshire School of Photography (HSP)
Hampshire School of Photography is based in Fleet, Hampshire, on the border with Berkshire and Surrey.

Its wide ranging curriculum teaches photography to enthusiasts at all levels - from complete beginners and advanced amateurs, through to those who want to go professional.

It does this through workshops and year-long courses that provide solid foundations in (amongst other things): photography theory, composition, portrait & landscape photography, working with flash, macro photography and editing in Lightroom and Photoshop.  Some of our courses go even deeper… to stretch students with challenging assignments, forcing them out of their comfort zones.

Founder of HSP, Kevin Ahronson, also offers private mentoring to a small number of people each year, as his busy schedule allows

Check out our website for more information about courses, all of which are run at our training centre.

Website: gohsp.com

Test your knowledge
Free Viewfinder Workshops

Blog:  The Photography Teacher
Facebook: Hampshire School of Photography

Contact us on email: support@gohsp.com

Got a Photography Question?

If you have a burning question about (virtually) anything to do with photography, click on this link. You can record your question onto your device (phone, laptop, etc) and if picked, I will play it during the show. https://www.tog-talk.com/voicemail/

Looking for courses

Want to find out about my live, in-person workshops, check out the Hampshire School of Photography website:

https://www.hampshirephotoschool.com

Hampshire Photography Network

A free Facebook group for amateur photographers who want to connect, collaborate and grow together.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1222685165227144

Contact me

You can contact me by leaving a message via this link: https://www.tog-talk.com/contact/