To achieve a shallow depth of field in your photographs and create that beautiful background blur (bokeh) effect, follow these steps: 1. Use a Wide Aperture. 2. Use a Large Sensor Camera. 3. Get Closer to Your Subject. 4. Use a Telephoto Lens. 5. Increase the Focal Length. 6. Focus on the Subject. 7. Lower ISO and Use a Tripod. 8. Use ND Filters. 9. Shoot in Aperture Priority or Manual Mode. 10. Experiment and Practice. Remember that the exact settings and techniques may vary...

Using lighting to enhance texture in your photographs can add depth and visual interest to your images. Here are some techniques to achieve this: 1. Side Lighting. 2. Directional Light. 3. Diffused Light. 4. Backlighting. 5. Texture as the Subject. 6. Macro Photography. 7. Use Shadows and Highlights. 8. Fill Flash. 9. Experiment with Angles. 10. Post-Processing. Remember that the type of texture, lighting conditions, and your creative intent will all influence how you use...

In a previous episode I discussed which lens is best for portrait photography and spoke about common portrait lenses. In this episode focus more on the actual focal lengths. The choice of focal length lens for shooting portraits can significantly impact the look and feel of the final image. Lets look at some differences as well as benefits of using different focal lengths: 1. Wide-Angle Lens (24mm to 35mm). 2. Standard/Normal Lens (50mm). 3. Short Telephoto Lens (85mm to 135mm). 4....

Video production, photography, and filmmaking are related but distinct disciplines. Here are some key differences between them. 1. Medium. 2. Time-Based vs. Still. 3. Storytelling. 4. Equipment and Techniques. 5. Editing and Post-Production. 6. Artistic Expression. While these three fields share some common techniques and principles, they serve different purposes and require distinct skill sets and equipment. Depending on the project's goals and the desired outcome, one may...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss what causes photos to be blurry. Photos can be blurry due to various reasons: 1. Camera Shake. 2. Low Light. 3. Auto-Focus Errors.  4. Motion Blur. 5. Shutter Speed. 6. Lens Quality. 7. Depth of Field. 8. ISO Settings. 9. Aperture Size. 10. Camera Settings. 11. Vibration or Wind. 12. Subject Movement. 13. Dirty Sensor. 14. Lens Stabilisation. 15. Improper Focusing Technique. 16. Software Processing. 17. Optical...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss the best lens for taking portraits on an APS-C sensor camera. Today’s episode comes by way of a question I was asked, so I thought I would provide my answer on the podcast as I’m sure the person asking the question, is probably not the only person wondering the same thing. I love answering your photography related questions, so if you have anything you would like answered or discussed, then ask away and I’ll do my utmost to...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss some benefits of short video clips to promote your business or product. Short video clips can be highly effective for promoting your business or product for several reasons: 1. Attention-grabbing. 2. Concise storytelling. 3. Increased engagement. 4. Mobile-friendly. 5. Shareability. 6. Brand personality. 7. Cost-effective. 8. Analytics and feedback. 9. Call to action. 10. Versatility. In summary, short video clips...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. In this episode I discuss how to overcome the following 11 challenges when photographing in low-light. 1. Use a Fast Lens. 2. Increase ISO. 3. Use a Tripod. 4. Longer Shutter Speed. 5. Image Stabilisation. 6. Shoot in RAW. 7. Manual Focus. 8. External Lighting. 9. Bracketing. 10. Noise Reduction; and 11. Practice. I’m looking to have more guests on the podcast to provide you with more value.  With that in mind, if you work within the...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss the differences between a smartphone and a SLR. In a world where video and photography is so accessible now due to the technology within our smartphones, I thought I’d share the differences between using a phone and a DSLR.  Smartphones and SLR cameras differ in terms of image quality and cost in several ways. In this episode I discuss, 1. Image Quality 2. Cost 3. Portability 4. Specialised Features; and 5. Purpose I’m...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss the common uses of corporate photography. Corporate photography serves various purposes in the business world.  Whether you’re a photographer, a business owner, or the creative director for your company, here are some of the uses good photography has: 1. Branding 2. Marketing and Advertising 3. Public Relations 4. Internal Communication 5. Recruitment 6. Documentation 7. Website and Social Media 8. Product Photography 9....

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss which lens is best for portrait photography. Common portrait lens choices include: 1. 85mm f/1.8 or f/1.4: Great for headshots and portraits, providing a flattering perspective and creamy bokeh. 2. 50mm f/1.8 or f/1.4: Versatile and often more budget-friendly, suitable for full-body or environmental portraits. 3. 35mm f/1.8 or f/1.4: Wider angle, ideal for environmental portraits and capturing more of the...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. In today’s episode I have something a little different lined up for you as I sit down with Billy Haynes of Miru Visuals and discuss drones, and how they can be used for business.  So, if you’re thinking of incorporating drone footage into your portfolio, then you’re going to want to listen to what Billy has to say. I genuinely could have chatted all day on this topic, which leads me on to my question, “would you like to hear more conversations from...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss some simple composition tricks to help improve your photography. Here are some simple composition tips to help you take stunning photos: 1. Rule of Thirds. 2. Leading Lines. 3. Framing. 4. Symmetry and Patterns. 5. Depth and Layers. 6. Perspective and Angles. 7. Minimalism. 8. Use of Colour. 9. Rule of Odds. 10. Negative Space. Remember that these tips are guidelines, and breaking them creatively can also result in...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss how photography can be used for social change and awareness.  Photography can be a powerful tool for social change and awareness in several ways: 1. Documenting Injustice. 2. Raising Awareness. 3. Advocacy. 4. Humanising Stories. 5. Historical Record. 6. Promoting Positive Change. 7. Challenging Stereotypes. 8. Art as Activism. 9. Aiding Disaster Response. 10. Environmental Conservation. In summary, photography can be...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss how you can capture stunning night skies. Following recent events whereby I could experience the aurora whilst stood in my own back garden here in Essex, I thought I’d share with you 15 tips to help you capture stunning night sky photographs of your own. Capturing this requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you get started: 1. Choose the Right Location. 2. Use a Tripod. 3. Fast...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss the considerations when choosing a camera lens.  Choosing camera lenses depends on several factors, including your photography style, budget, and the type of camera you have. Consider the following: 1. Focal Length. 2. Aperture. 3. Zoom vs. Prime. 4. Image Stabilisation. 5. Compatibility. 6. Budget. 7. Reviews and Recommendations. 8. Weight and Size. 9. Special Features. 10. Try Before Buying. Remember that lenses can...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss why digital camera produce more noise in low light than film camera’s. Digital cameras and film cameras behave differently in low light situations due to the nature of their technology. While they may have the same sensor size and ISO rating, the underlying processes create variations in noise. I discuss this further during this episode. If you’ve enjoyed this podcast, and would like to listen to more topics, just like this...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss what skills and temperament make a good photographer. To me, understanding the topics discussed in this episode are the things that make for a good photographer. If you don’t agree then I’d love to hear why, and what would be on your list. Until next time,  Be Creative. Be Inspired. Be You. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary-fernon/message

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s discuss the differences between a crop sensor and full frame camera. The fundamental differences between a crop sensor and a full-frame camera lie in their sensor size and how they affect image quality and field of view: 1. Sensor size. 2. Field of view. 3. Image quality. 4. Depth of field. 5. Cost and size. Until next time,  Be Creative. Be Inspired. Be You. LINKS https://linktr.ee/garyfernon --- Send in a voice message:...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Lets discuss the benefits of having different shaped and sized lenses. Having different shaped and sized lenses offers various benefits in different optical systems and applications. 1. Focusing Abilities. 2. Field of View. 3. Aperture Control. 4. Aberration Correction. 5. Magnification. 6. Portability. 7. Specialised Functions. 8. Creative Expression. 9. Light Gathering. Overall, the variety in lens shapes and sizes provides...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Lets talk about how you can avoid looking awkward while taking selfies with your friends. To avoid looking awkward while taking selfies with friends, try these tips: 1. Find good lighting. 2. Hold the camera at eye level. 3. Smile naturally. 4. Use the timer or a selfie stick. 5. Be mindful of backgrounds. 6. Communicate and have fun. 7. Take multiple shots. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep trying, and don't be too critical...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. In episode 15 of 2023 I discussed 5 things that would assist you in making videos with your phone better, without having to use any editing software. In episode 4 in 2024, I’m going to share 4 more tips. 4 Bonus Tips Environment Sound quality (microphone vs built in mic) Consistency  Don't over commit. If you’ve enjoyed this podcast, and would like to listen to more topics, just like this one, then why not consider following the Visual...

Welcome to the Visual Storytelling podcast. Let’s explore how to improve your photography skills.  Improving your photography skills can be achieved through practice and learning. Here are some tips to help you get started: 1. Learn the fundamentals. 2. Practice regularly. 3. Study other photographers' work. 4. Use manual settings. 5. Edit your photos. 6. Get constructive feedback. 7. Focus on one genre. 8. Study the technicalities of your gear. 9. Be patient and...

To have a good expression in photographs, consider the following. A good expression in any photograph makes the world of difference. Here are ten tips to help you achieve this. 1. Relax and be natural. 2. Practice in front of a mirror. 3. Focus on your eyes. 4. Be mindful of your body language. 5. Find good lighting. 6. Avoid staring directly into the camera. 7. Capture candid moments. 8. Work with a skilled photographer. 9. Be patient and take multiple shots. 10. Practice...