B&H Photography Podcast

B&H Photo & Video

The B&H Photography Podcast: Join us every other week for a conversation with insightful and entertaining guests. From gear and technique to history, science and art, we discuss the issues most important to the contemporary photographer.

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459 episodes
Updated July 2

Episodes459

Newest first

Aug 4, 2016 · 53 min
Medium Format Goes Mirrorless
With the recent announcement of the Hasselblad X1D-50c Medium Format Mirrorless Camera, the debate about sensor size and resolving power has taken a whole new turn. What does the release of this impressive camera say about the future of medium format? Will this camera appeal to DSLR shooters, whether professional or enthusiast? Will traditional medium format photographers embrace it? This week's episode of the B&H Photography Podcast provides an introduction to digital medium format photography and takes a look at this new camera, as well as medium format digital backs and the Pentax 645Z, released to much acclaim two years ago. We also discuss the value of medium format sensors in light of the recent availability of ultra-high resolution DSLR and mirrorless cameras from Nikon, Sony and, specifically the Canon 5DS and 5DS R. Guests: Levi Tenenbaum and Jeremy Tan
Jul 28, 2016 · 40 min
Why is 4K Video in a Point-and-Shoot Camera?
Digital video is a huge a part of "photography" now. There are almost no digital cameras introduced without some kind of video capability and, in some cases, "still" cameras are the go-to choice for professional videographers. Recently, we have seen 4K video surpass 1080 as the standard, and many camera lines, from DSLR to smartphone, are now providing 4K capability, but is this level of quality really warranted or even effective in a point-and-shoot camera? Today's episode of the podcast will take on this question and, in so doing, we will discuss the particulars of 4K, including what camera models offer this high-definition quality, how do sensor size and form factor affect image quality, what peripherals are needed to make videos of a quality that merit 4K, and what's the point of recording 4K if you can't screen 4K? Join us as two B&H experts help clear the air regarding 4K video in still cameras. Guests: Josh Pomponio and Shawn Steiner
Jul 21, 2016 · 41 min
Selfie or Self-Portrait
What will our future selfies be like? Our guest, Stephen Mayes, suggests that they may be images of what we think rather than what we see. For those of you exasperated by the deluge of duck faces in your social media feed, this may be a terrifying idea, but is the selfie really that bad, and if so, how and why is it different than an artist's self-portrait? These are the questions we address in this week's episode and, to do so, we have invited the inimitable Mr. Mayes and photographer Nicky Wanzi, whose recent series of self-portraits, in which she depicts not only herself but also two of her best friends, was included in PDN's 2016 Photo Annual. Join us for this enjoyable conversation as we expose the selfie. Guests: Stephen Mayes and Nicky Wanzi Photograph: John Harris
Jul 14, 2016 · 1 hr
Dance Photography with Lois Greenfield and Omar Z. Robles
Are dance and photography natural enemies? Well, of course not, but one art form is about the still, captured moment, and the other about choreographed movement and fluidity. However, anyone who truly understands photography knows the importance of timing, grace, and harmony, and a dancer must also recognize the relevance of rest and static. Sculpture, or gesture perhaps, is their common bond and our two guests know well the significance of gesture and the conflicting and compatible characteristics of dance and photography. They join us to talk about their distinct work and shooting styles. Lois Greenfield is one of the recognized masters of the craft, having developed a singular style sought by the world's most renowned dance companies, and Omar Z Robles, an official Fujifilm X-Photographer, brings a fresh take, blending aspects of documentary and street photography. Enjoy this episode as we discuss improvisation, inspiration, dodging taxis and, of course, lighting systems and camera and lens choices. Guests: Lois Greenfield and Omar Z. Robles Photograph by Lois Greenfield
Jul 7, 2016 · 58 min
The Best Gear at Mid-Year
As summer rolls around it's a good time to assess the best of the new products that have been announced thus far in 2016. With two of our most respected product specialists (and straight-up gear heads) we will discuss the most interesting cameras, lenses and accessories to be introduced thus far in 2016, some aren't even on the shelves yet. Cameras from Sigma, Pentax, Sony, Canon, Nikon and Olympus are considered and we also touch on new cameras from Leica, Impossible and Hasselblad. Lenses from these manufacturers as well as Voigtlander, Tamron and Lensbaby are highlighted as is gear from Broncolor, Nissin, Tether Tools and others. Enjoy this informative episode with insight from our in-house experts. Guests: Zev Slotkin and Levi Tenenbaum
Jun 30, 2016 · 56 min
Travel Photography: Travel or Photography?
At the 2016 OPTIC Imaging Conference, we were immersed in the riches of nature and travel photography; so many talented and distinguished photographers were displaying work and discussing their experiences and craft. We at the podcast were fortunate to be able to sit down with several National Geographic photographers for informal yet intimate chats on subjects ranging from photographic influences to shooting styles to gear choices. This week's podcast presents a selection or compendium, if you will, of highlights from these conversations. We spoke on a variety of topics but we ended each chat with this question: if you had to choose between photography and travel, which would it be? The answers might surprise you. Guests: Ralph Lee Hopkins, Vincent Versace, Brenda Tharp, Jay Dickman, Katrin Eismann, Chris Nicholson Photo Credit: Katrin Eismann
Jun 23, 2016 · 55 min
The Mirrorless Divide—Fuji is for Artists, Sony is for Pros?
With deference to Linda Richman, today's podcast offers its version of the 'Coffee Talk' skit from Saturday Night Live—Fuji is for Artists/Sony is for Pros… discuss! We realize, of course, that any camera—used well—can be for professionals and for artists and that artists can be pros and vice versa; we're not so naïve as to think otherwise. Given the parameters of the topic, however, we take on this idea in a conversation that touches upon the marketing for these high-end mirrorless cameras, who is actually using them, and most important, their feature sets, lenses, and system accessories. Three of our most trusted in-house experts join us to discuss their experiences with the Sony a7 series and the Fujifilm X series cameras as we attempt to clarify the most appropriate applications for each camera line. Now, I'm getting verklempt…so talk amongst yourselves. Guests: Shawn Steiner, Justin Dise, Todd Vorenkamp
Jun 16, 2016 · 57 min
Landscape Masters: Michael Kenna and Paul & John Paul Caponigro
The OPTIC 2016 Imaging Conference provided numerous opportunities to talk with some of the most respected nature and landscape photographers working today, but the highlights of our two days at OPTIC had to be our chat with Michael Kenna, the event's keynote presenter, and our conversation with Paul and John Paul Caponigro. It is unnecessary to summarize the work of these three photographers in any quick description but, suffice it to say, each is a master of his craft. While their work is distinctive and unique, it was wonderful to hear of their common vision, approach—and yes, spirituality—and for this reason, we present their conversations together. With Kenna we spoke of process, why he sticks with medium format film photography and what motivates and inspires his work. With the Caponigros, we touched upon the spirit of art, how to communicate with nature and, with Father's Day in mind, how to let a child discover his or her own path to artistic expression. Join us for these two inspirational conversations. Guests: Michael Kenna (1:30 - 30:05) Paul and John Paul Caponigro (31:00-57:10) Photo Credit: Paul Caponigro (l) and John Paul Caponigro (r)
Jun 10, 2016 · 1 hr 21 min
Gear Insights from the Major Manufacturers at OPTIC 2016
Every year, B&H hosts the OPTIC Imaging Conference, showcasing the best nature, landscape, and travel photography. The 2016 edition was a stellar outing, with presentations by the most interesting photographers working in those fields. It also serves as a chance for participants to put their hands on the latest cameras, lenses, and gear from the major manufacturers. In today's episode we talk with gear experts from the most respected camera, lens and accessory manufacturers. Sigma: 2:10 Fujifilm: 10:18 Canon: 16:40 ------------------------- Lensbaby: 24:40 Sony: 35:20 Panasonic: 45:35 ------------------------ Tiffen: 54:12 Tamron: 61:17 Nikon: 68:46 OPTIC is a wonderful opportunity to embrace photography, interact with incredible photographers, and play with the latest tools of the trade. This year, legends such as Michael Kenna and Paul Caponigro spoke and presented work, and we will be sharing our conversations with them and other photographers in future episodes, but today we feature a collection of our talks with representatives of the major camera and lens makers. And while we tried to have them divulge secrets for their as-of-yet-unannounced marvels waiting for us on the designer's tables, we had to settle for updates on their newest cameras, lenses, filters, and adapters. We also snuck in some chat about the current and future state of the camera industry, and a few laughs to boot. Guests: Marc Farb, Michael Bulbenko, Rudy Winston, Ken Mitchell, Amy Klotsman, Tom Curley, Michael Cassara, K.T. Leung, Lindsay Silverman Photo Credit: Ralph Lee Hopkins
Jun 3, 2016 · 49 min
If You Could Only Use One Camera, Which Would It Be?
Today we talk cameras! In this episode of the B&H Photography Podcast, we invite two respected members of the B&H team to tell us which one camera offers them all they would ever want from one camera. Well, not exactly, but Christina Smith and Andrea Ortado do provide us with much to consider when we go on this hypothetical journey to find your "desert island" camera. Would it be full frame or film, have interchangeable lenses (but which one lens), would it be rugged and waterproof, be blazing fast or ultra-high resolution? How about high ISO or touch screen or an optical view finder? These are some of the questions we ask as we move toward the conclusion of our episode, when we each reveal which one camera we would choose if we had only one camera to use. Guests: Christina Smith and Andrea Ortado
May 26, 2016 · 50 min
Alternative Process Photography in the Digital Age – Penumbra Foundation
Wet-Collodion, Daguerreotype, Tintype, Calotype, Gum Bichromate, Van Dyke Brown. Oh my! On this week's podcast, we welcome Geoffrey Berliner, Executive Director of the Penumbra Foundation, and photographer Jolene Lupo, to talk about alternative process photography. The Penumbra Foundation is an exceptional organization, dedicated to the art, science, and history of photography and Berliner outlines their history and mission and the workshops and facilities they make available to all photographers, while Lupo discusses her tintype work at Penumbra and her Spirit Photography. This episode is a true education, not just on the various alternative processes, but on the history of photography and on how learning the original pre-film processes will improve your digital photography. Guests: Geoffrey Berliner and Jolene Lupo Photograph by Jolene Lupo
May 19, 2016 · 43 min
The Prize—Two Photojournalists Reflect on Winning a Pulitzer
The Pulitzer Prizes for Feature and for Breaking News Photography are the highest honors that a photojournalist can receive and, between our two guests, they have won four. Martha Rial won the award for her coverage of Rwandan refugees fleeing genocide, and Ruth Fremson has won the award for her team coverage of the Bill Clinton impeachment process and for coverage of the 9/11 attacks in New York and of Pakistan and Afghanistan in the months after September, 2001. Both photographers join us to discuss how the Pulitzer Prize affected their lives and careers. We talk about the assignments that earned them their honors, the process of submission, how they were notified of their awards, and how winning the awards and forever being known as a "Pulitzer Prize- winning photographer" changed their assignments and the direction of their work. Join us for this enjoyable conversation with two tremendously talented photographers who have been firsthand witnesses to our shared history. Guests: Martha Rial and Ruth Fremson
May 13, 2016 · 32 min
Legends of Photojournalism – The Pulitzer Prize Celebration
Some days, I love my job, and this was most definitely one of those days. We were in a room of heroes, not just heroes of mine, but actual heroes, people who fill their lives, risk their lives, for passion and for the betterment of humanity. The gathering was called "The Pulitzer Prize Photographers," held in celebration of the centennial of the establishment of the Pulitzer Prize and organized by the Eddie Adams Workshop, the Parsons School of Design, and supported, in part, by B&H Photo. It brought together Pulitzer-Prize-winning photographers from six decades, displayed their history lesson of potent journalism, and gave time and space for their stories to be told. At times, emotion filled the auditorium, tears were shed, but by the end of the night, there was joy—Nick Ut hamming it up in the photo booth, Adrees Latif and Ruth Fremson pressing limes for margaritas at the after-party. I shook hands with Robert Jackson, who captured the shooting of Lee Harvey Oswald, and thanked Daniel Berehulak—he risked his life to document the Ebola plague in West Africa, and in doing so, helped bring to an earlier end that horrible epidemic. Nancy Borowick, who chronicled her parent's illnesses and deaths, seemed endearingly unaware of her might, and John White brought a smile to many faces, reminding us that as photographers we are "visual servants." This episode of our podcast will do its best to bring you to this event, to share moments of insight from the speakers and provide a sense of the evening's activities. Even if photojournalism is not your primary interest, enjoy, be moved, and be inspired by the experience and wisdom put forth at this gathering of greats.
May 5, 2016 · 1 hr 6 min
Concept to Cover: Collaboration in Fashion Photography
In addition to her fashion and commercial photography, Lindsay Adler is a much sought-after speaker and educator and, after listening to this episode, there'll be no surprise as to why. With clarity and conviction, she walks us through all the steps of producing commercial and editorial fashion shoots, beginning with the initial contact with the client to concept development, budgeting, casting, and collaboration, all the way to delivery of the final product. Adler offers concrete examples and insightful anecdotes that will appeal to photographers at any stage in their career. Hair, makeup, lighting, gear, set building, retouching, keeping your crew happy, and just how many assistants a professional parrot needs are all part of this enjoyable conversation. Guest: Lindsay Adler
Apr 21, 2016 · 45 min
Not Believing in Roadblocks- A Conversation with Photojournalist Adriane Ohanesian, Part II
Not Believing in Roadblocks, Part II – The Making of a Photojournalist Photojournalist and 2016 World Press Photo award winner Adriane Ohanesian joins us for a captivating two-part conversation on her work in South Sudan, Darfur, and Burma, and describes how she made the transition from anthropology student to conflict and humanitarian photographer. This conversation is divided into two parts, but its themes of women in photojournalism and the difficult but fulfilling life of freelance work in war-torn areas permeates the entire conversation. With her confident and compassionate demeanor, Ohanesian relates how she was introduced to the cultures of East Africa, snuck into South Sudan to begin her career, faced down military commanders and navigated a month-long trek into Darfur to photograph displaced families living in a cave. She also talks about the challenges and advantages of being a female photojournalist and the amazing resilience of people living through years of war and abuse. Also joining us on this compelling episode is B&H writer Jill Waterman. We're proud to present the voice of a young photojournalist from whom we expect to hear a great deal in the years to come. Ohanesian's World Press Photo award-winning photograph can be seen at http://www.worldpressphoto.org/collection/photo/2016/contemporary-issues/adriane-ohanesian Guest: Adriane Ohanesian
Apr 21, 2016 · 34 min
Not Believing in Roadblocks- A Conversation with Photojournalist Adriane Ohanesian, Part I
Not Believing in Roadblocks, Part I – Women and Photojournalism Photojournalist and 2016 World Press Photo award winner Adriane Ohanesian joins us for a captivating two-part conversation on her work in South Sudan, Darfur, and Burma, and describes how she made the transition from anthropology student to conflict and humanitarian photographer. This conversation is divided into two parts, but its themes of women in photojournalism and the difficult but fulfilling life of freelance work in war-torn areas permeates the entire conversation. With her confident and compassionate demeanor, Ohanesian relates how she was introduced to the cultures of East Africa, snuck into South Sudan to begin her career, faced down military commanders and navigated a month-long trek into Darfur to photograph displaced families living in a cave. She also talks about the challenges and advantages of being a female photojournalist and the amazing resilience of people living through years of war and abuse. Also joining us on this compelling episode is B&H writer Jill Waterman. We're proud to present the voice of a young photojournalist from whom we expect to hear a great deal in the years to come. Ohanesian's World Press Photo award-winning photograph can be seen at http://www.worldpressphoto.org/collection/photo/2016/contemporary-issues/adriane-ohanesian Guest: Adriane Ohanesian
Apr 14, 2016 · 48 min
Lens Adapters—Your Link to Creative Photography
Lens adapters are certainly not new items in the savvy photographer's gear bag, but they have taken on an added significance since the onset of mirrorless camera production, and can be the literal link between the cold efficiency of digital cameras and the distinctive character of exotic lenses from an earlier era. Of course, there are high-tech electronic adapters too and what may be surprising is just how important adapters are to filmmakers and how they have up-ended the used lens market. In this episode, we talk with two unapologetic old lens zealots who regularly use adapters to connect lenses from a range of manufacturers to their many cameras. We start with a basic introduction to the common types and brands of adapters and then "geek out" on the many ways to use adapters for creative experimentation and unique imaging. Guests: Johnny Tsang and Victor Samoilovich For images of some of the adapters and lenses discussed on this show, link to the B&H Instagram feed at https://www.instagram.com/bhphoto/
Apr 7, 2016 · 56 min
On "AIR" - An Interview with Vincent LaForet
Pulitzer Prize and Cannes Lion award winner Vincent LaForet has accomplished so much in still and motion photography, yet he continues to push himself to create images he has "never seen before". This drive has led to his most recent passion project on high-altitude night photography and the incredible book, "AIR". LaForet joins us for an in-depth conversation on the thrills, as well as the logistical, technical, and physical challenges of creating the images for this book. From lessons taught to him by his father, to combat and sports photography, to the pressure of self-funding a project, to gear and technical advice, LaForet regales us with wonderful stories from his career and the making of "AIR". Guest: Vincent LaForet To purchase the book follow this link: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1199832-REG/laforet_visuals_978_0_9960587_2_8_book_air_1st_edition.html To see footage of LaForet in action and the making of AIR, check out this B&H Prospectives Video. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/explora/photography/features/bh-prospectives-aerial-photography-vincent-laforet
Mar 31, 2016 · 40 min
Greatest Hits, Volume I
The B&H Photography Podcast has been streaming for almost six months and we have had some incredible guests, and discussed aspects of photography from gear to technique to art to funding your work. We pride ourselves on our eclectic approach to photography and are pleased to present this episode, which features of a wonderful set of clips from some of our first 20 episodes. We've chosen segments that highlight our broad range and evince the heart of the very insightful and entertaining conversations we have hosted. We also added a few bloopers just for fun. This "sampler platter" offers talks on drones, the digital versus film experience, Leica history, night photography, the Museum of Modern Art, the best cameras of 2015 and the future of DSLRs. Sit back (unless you're driving), enjoy and thank you for making our show the success it has become.
Mar 23, 2016 · 36 min
Inspiration over Imitation – Developing Your Wedding Photography Style
Has your wedding photography gone stale? Do your photos look just like everyone else's? Perhaps you need to inject a little bit of you into your photography. Kristi Drago-Price knows wedding photography from all the angles—as a shooter, as an editor, and as a speaker and consultant. She joins us for a high-spirited chat, offering core ideas to improve your wedding photography. This episode is not about the latest gear or lighting techniques, but more, "how to get your game on"—how to get the most out of your style and build a client base that will grow with you. Thoughts on pre- and post-wedding communication, popular shooting styles, marketing, "eye-candy," and getting published in wedding magazines will inspire you as the wedding season approaches. Guest: Kristi Drago-Price

B&H Photography Podcast

Medium Format Goes Mirrorless

Why is 4K Video in a Point-and-Shoot Camera?

Selfie or Self-Portrait

Dance Photography with Lois Greenfield and Omar Z. Robles

The Best Gear at Mid-Year

Travel Photography: Travel or Photography?

The Mirrorless Divide—Fuji is for Artists, Sony is for Pros?

Landscape Masters: Michael Kenna and Paul & John Paul Caponigro

Gear Insights from the Major Manufacturers at OPTIC 2016

If You Could Only Use One Camera, Which Would It Be?

Alternative Process Photography in the Digital Age – Penumbra Foundation

The Prize—Two Photojournalists Reflect on Winning a Pulitzer

Legends of Photojournalism – The Pulitzer Prize Celebration

Concept to Cover: Collaboration in Fashion Photography

Not Believing in Roadblocks- A Conversation with Photojournalist Adriane Ohanesian, Part II

Not Believing in Roadblocks- A Conversation with Photojournalist Adriane Ohanesian, Part I

Lens Adapters—Your Link to Creative Photography

On "AIR" - An Interview with Vincent LaForet

Greatest Hits, Volume I

Inspiration over Imitation – Developing Your Wedding Photography Style