A square photograph is not just a cropped rectangle. With a 1:1 aspect ratio, it changes the way we work with composition, symmetry, rhythm, and negative space. In this article, I’ll show you how photographers like Vivian Maier and Roman Franc have come to love the square format, how it influences the way they perceive their images, and how you can master square composition—even if your camera only shoots in a rectangular format.

Water is one of the most rewarding subjects in photography. You can freeze water into sharp droplets and splashes, or use long exposures to transform it into a smooth, silky mist. You can also experiment with wet glass or oil and water to create truly unique photos at home.

Diagonal composition is one of the most effective compositional techniques in photography. It adds movement, depth, and tension to an image and naturally guides the viewer’s eye through the frame. In this article, I‘ll show you how to use diagonals in landscape, portrait, and action photography, when they work best, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.

An ultra-wide-angle, ultra-fast lens. This isn’t just a lens for the display case—it’s a genuinely practical tool. That said, it might not be the right lens for every photographer. Find out why I choose it and what my experience has been after using this Sigma lens.

Debates over megapixels and sensor size can easily overshadow what really matters. It’s the story, the emotions, and the light that make a great photo, not the technology. In this article, we’ll look at when it makes sense to use a smartphone and when a camera is the better choice. We’ll take into account how quickly you need to react, whether you want to remain inconspicuous in a crowd, how people around you respond, and what you plan to do with the photo. There is a comparison of the key settings of both options at the end.

Yellowed or grayish teeth can unnecessarily distract from a portrait. You don’t have to manually search for the right settings to brighten and whiten them. Zoner Studio offers a special preset that automatically sets the local adjustment settings for you.

Learn what lenses and equipment are best suited for the flight, what to watch out for during landing, and when a peaceful sightseeing ride can turn into an adrenaline rush in seconds.

You can carry your camera equipment with you in a variety of carrying cases or bags. One of the most popular solutions is a camera backpack. There are plenty to choose from and there is one out there that suits just about anyone. It’s important to consider which features are the most important to you.

Light painting is one of the most creative photography techniques out there. All you need is a long exposure, a tripod, and an ordinary flashlight, and you can create glowing text, luminous orbs, or striking portraits. We'll show you how to set up your camera, what gear to start with, and how to fine-tune your shots in post-production.

Every beginner wants to look professional behind the camera, and camera manufacturers are more than happy to profit from that. Let's go through five popular accessories and pieces of gear that people often buy because the gear makes them feel more professional rather than because it actually improves their photos. We'll tell you when this gear actually makes sense — and when it's just an unnecessary, premature expense.