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Alex Cooke
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Articles written by Alex Cooke

Maturing as a Photographer Means Letting Go of the Rules

Photography isn’t about mastering a list of rules, and understanding that can transform your approach. Clinging rigidly to rules can limit your growth and creativity, leaving you stuck instead of progressing.

The Danger of Comparing Your Photos to Others

When learning photography, it's common to fall into the mindset of right and wrong images. This approach can stifle creativity and hinder your progress by creating unnecessary stress.

The Dopamine Economy of Photography: How Instant Gratification Destroyed Patience

Photography has undergone a fundamental transformation that extends far beyond technical capabilities. While digital cameras and smartphones have democratized image-making and eliminated financial barriers to practice, they may have simultaneously dismantled the psychological foundations that historically drove photographic mastery: patience, deliberation, and tolerance for delayed gratification.

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.4: Essential or Overrated?

A reliable 35mm lens can elevate your work significantly, especially when you shoot environmental portraits, travel images, or video. A lens like the Canon RF 35mm f/1.4 L VCM might promise top-tier results, but does it truly deliver enough to justify its price?

Streamline Photoshop by Customizing Your Toolbar

Customizing Photoshop’s toolbar to match your workflow can streamline your editing process significantly. By eliminating unnecessary tools, you keep only the essentials visible, simplifying your interface and saving valuable editing time.

The Paradox of Choice in Photo Editing: Why Unlimited Options Create Worse Results

Modern photo editing software offers unprecedented creative control, with thousands of filters, adjustment options, and effects available at the click of a button. Adobe Lightroom alone provides over 100 adjustment sliders, while apps like VSCO offer hundreds of preset filters. Instagram and TikTok have democratized photo editing with dozens of built-in options that users can apply instantly.

A Two-Light Portrait Setup That Works Every Time

Creating magazine-quality portraits doesn't require an elaborate lighting setup or years of experience. A simple two-light technique can consistently deliver professional results when you need to work quickly and efficiently.

Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S Review: Worth the Price?

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S sits in an interesting position within Nikon's full frame mirrorless lens lineup. You might assume all f/1.8 S-line lenses perform equally, but that assumption could cost you both money and image quality.

Getting the Most From Micro Four Thirds Photography

If you’ve picked up a micro four thirds camera or are thinking of switching, understanding how to use it effectively is key. The camera format brings specific advantages and limitations that affect your photography significantly.

The Loneliness Epidemic and Photography: Connection Versus Performance

Sarah posted another sunset photo from her weekend getaway, carefully edited with warm filters that made the moment look even more magical than it had felt in person. Within minutes, the likes and comments began flowing: "Gorgeous!" "So jealous!" "Living your best life!" Each notification brought a small rush of validation, proof that her 847 followers were watching, appreciating, connecting with her experiences.

Beginner Mistakes in Flash Photography to Avoid

Flash photography can dramatically transform your images, but beginners often trip over common mistakes. Knowing how to sidestep these pitfalls can make your photos stand out from the start.

Master Street Photography on Film With These Essential Tips

Shooting street photography on film offers a unique way to engage more deeply with your environment. Film requires intentionality and mindfulness that digital doesn't always demand, making it especially rewarding when done thoughtfully.

Creative Techniques for Striking Abstract Photos

Abstract photography could be your next creative breakthrough, especially when traditional subjects no longer inspire you or you're facing restrictive shooting conditions. By removing context, abstract images emphasize shapes, colors, and patterns, opening entirely new avenues for creativity.

Pro Tips for Stunning Eagle Shots

Photographing eagles requires patience and precision, and understanding how to adapt quickly in changing conditions makes all the difference.

Quick Tips to Improve Your Photography Brand

Standing out as a photographer today goes far beyond simply taking great pictures. With social media feeds overflowing with impressive work, capturing someone's attention long enough to build your photography business demands strategic branding and presentation.