DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY NEWS FROM ePHOTOzine

 

We can't let October pass without mentioning a close-up photography subject many photographers shoot spectacular images of at this time of year and that's fungi.

So, if you're venturing into the world of fungi photography for the first time or just want a quick reminder on what kit you'll need, have a read of our guide on photographing mushrooms, toadstools and fungi.
 

1. Pick the right season

The reason why this technique is something that's mentioned at this time of year is that fungi tend to like Autumn and Winter when it's cooler and wetter. You might even find them establishing themselves on your lawn if conditions are right. 

 

2. Head somewhere dark and damp

Think dark, damp places such as dense woodland areas where not much sunlight can get through. Search under piles of leaves and look around the base of trees. After a spell of particularly wet weather, they will start to show themselves in more places than you might expect!

 

3. Use a macro lens

A good macro lens is a must as fungi aren't the largest of subjects and your shots will have more impact by getting in close.

 

4. Stabilise your kit

Low light means longer shutter speeds so you're going to need a support for your camera. Some tripods can be adjusted so they sit low to the ground but you could just use a beanbag if your tripod isn't so flexible. Consider using a remote / cable release so you don't introduce shake at the start of the exposure but if you don't own one just use your camera's self-timer.

 

 

5. Pack a polarising filter

On particularly damp days shine can be a problem and mushroom tops can end up overexposed. To combat this, fit a polarising filter to the end of your lens which will reduce the shine. You may be wondering why you couldn't just head out on a dry day and there's no reason why you can't, however as David Pritchard explained a blog post: "There’s no better time for photographing mushrooms than after (or during) rain. The colours strengthen, and everything adopts a lovely sheen." 

 

6. Tidy the surroundings

It's sometimes worth cleaning the specimen up that you're photographing before you take your shots. Have a look at what's in the back of the frame, too to see if there's twigs or anything else that could prove to be distracting in the final shot. Please don't pull plants out of the ground or damage parts of a tree for the sake of a photo, though. It's important that you leave things as you found them once you've finished taking your images. Of course, you may prefer the natural look which means you won't have to brush any dirt off the mushroom at all.

 

 

7. Shoot down low

Fungi like the floor which we know isn't the most comfortable angle to work from but it does mean viewers of your images will be drawn into the fungi's world much more successfully if you shoot from low down. The fungi will also have a three-dimensional feel to them as they'll have more height, plus you'll be able to capture shots of the underbelly, too.

 

8. Think about your composition

As mentioned in the above point, once you've got your position on the ground, you'll be able to not only photograph the top of the mushroom's dome but underneath it too. This gives you the chance to capture some of the textures and colour the mushroom has to offer as well as exaggerate the height of it. Try to capture mushrooms in a group, as a variety of sizes will add interest of the piece. Odd groups are more pleasing to the eye than pairs but if you have one particular good specimen, don't overlook shooting it standing on its own. If you include the background and how much distance you put between you and the mushroom will change every time so do take some time to assess the scene before hitting the shutter button. 

 

 

9. Shed some light on the image

Fungi may like dark conditions but it's not something that's easy to work with as a photographer. The most interesting part of the mushroom is the underbelly and to highlight the textures, shapes and colours you're going to have to bounce light into the scene. You can use your camera's built-in flash but this will often result in a harsh light that doesn't really add anything to the photograph. Instead, use off-camera flash and bounce the light off other objects. You can also play around with backlight which should create a halo around the mushroom's top. If you don't have a flashgun experiment with a torch or use a reflector to bounce light onto the underbelly of the mushroom.

 

10. Use a shallow depth of field

Throwing the background out of focus will not only help isolate your subject but it can also hide unwanted clutter. Add a bit of backlight and your subject will pop from the frame.

 

MPB, the largest global platform for buying and selling secondhand photography and video equipment, has today unveiled a refreshed brand identity that reflects its belief that every creator should have access to the right tools, in the right way. The new identity injects fresh energy into the brand and reinforces MPB’s commitment to make buying and selling used gear smarter, simpler and more accessible. 

Founded in 2011 and with headquarters in Brighton, MPB operates across the UK, US and Europe, recirculating over 615,000 cameras and lenses a year. Every item is bought directly from photographers and filmmakers, then carefully checked, graded and guaranteed by MPB’s in-house experts. It’s a simple, transparent process that gives creators complete confidence when buying, selling or trading gear.

London-based creative brand agency The Clearing has designed a visual and verbal identity system that will bring MPB’s brand story to life. The new look frames MPB as the smarter, more sustainable and more accessible way to buy, sell and trade camera gear, so that creators can spend less time worrying about their kit and more time creating.

 

Brand elements

The brightened and emboldened logo now standing on its own and without the “.com” places the MPB name front and centre for impact and stand out. 

A boldly simple and attitude-driven tone of voice instantly positions MPB as a disruptor - cutting through the marketing clutter and jargon that dominates the market. Instead of speaking like an instruction manual or a sales person, the new voice is confident, concise and provocative, bringing clarity to complexity and allowing the brand to speak with a relaxed and reassured authority. It uses attitude to connect with people whether they see themselves as creators or consumers, transforming a transactional experience into a personal one. This tone doesn't just sell cameras, it sells MPB's mindset: that theirs is the right way to buy, sell or trade secondhand gear.

Paired with a vibrant colour palette that leads with a distinctive Pink and secondary use of Midnight Blue, it aims to inject energy and stand out in a monotone category.

The typeface, Suisse Intl, was chosen to support the bold expression conveyed through their tone of voice – it allows them to present themselves as a straight-talking brand with a voice that aims to get people’s attention. 

The brand introduces a fresh product photography style, where cameras can be viewed from all angles – up close, in situ or within dynamic layouts imbued with movement. This allows MPB to highlight products when using them in listings, and in content. Content and storytelling shots feature real creators shot in a reportage style that tells a story about the shots they’re taking in the environment that they’re working in. At times, it’s combined with the brand’s new graphic device – inspired by the focus ring of a camera – creating a flexible visual tool that can be used across print and digital. 

A set of hand-drawn icons have been designed to bring a human touch to the brand, adding warmth to the platform and reinforcing MPB’s personality. Dotted throughout MPB’s platform, social media and other marketing channels, the icons are set in the new bold Pink.

Jonathan Hubbard, creative director and founder, The Clearing, says, “Every time you pick up your camera, it’s to create something. So having an easily decipherable platform to buy and sell gear is important to keep creatives doing what they do best. Positioning MPB as a circular alternative to buying new can resonate with consumers who want to reduce their environmental impact but still get high-performance products.”

“The Clearing understood that this was about more than just design, it marks the next evolution of the MPB brand story,” said Sophie Collins, CMO, MPB. “Our purpose remains, but the new tone and visual identity better reflect who we are today: bold, smart and upbeat - a brand built for creators who want to do things the right way.  

“As the need for high-quality content continues to rise, so does the expectation for smarter, more sustainable ways to access the gear to create it. This refresh reflects what creators are looking for: quality, value and responsibility. It reinforces MPB’s commitment to make it easier for every creator to keep creating.”

For more information, please visit the MPB website.

 

As the weather's getting cooler and trees are losing their green tint to shades which are much warmer we thought it would be a good idea to bring ten of our popular autumn photography tutorials together in one place. That way when you're planning a day of autumn photography you don't have to go all over the web searching for ideas and suggestions.
 

1. Autumn Macro Tips With A Compact Camera

Just because you're using a compact camera doesn't mean you can't shoot some interesting, autumn-themed macro shots. Here are some tips and hints to help compact users perfect their technique.

 

2. Photographing Reflections During Autumn

With such bold colours on offer, autumn's the perfect season for capturing reflections. We have tips on capturing a mirror-like reflection as well as advice on shooting more abstract style shots.

  3. Autumn Garden Photography Tips

Your garden is full of autumn photography subjects which means you can stay close to home and still capture the season with your camera and lens.

 

4. Tips On Shooting Autumn Landscapes

Capture the autumn season with your wide-angle lens and you'll soon have a collection of autumn landscapes that really pack some punch.

 

5. Autumn Shooting at Arboretums

Here are a few tips on photography in an Arboretum. With trees all around and wildlife and flowers abundant, there's no excuse not to break the camera out!   

 

After summer ends and the chips, candy floss and plastic buckets have long left the seafront, the British seaside resort morphs into a place that's desolated and full of photographic potential. 

 

1. Gear Suggestions

A zoom lens will give you the flexibility of both wide and telephoto options in one lens which is good news for the photographer who doesn't want to be carrying too much kit on their seaside walk. Plus, you don't really want to be changing lenses when there's a strong breeze blowing sand and salt which could damage your equipment. A tripod will help you steady your camera while the strong coastal breeze blows around you.

  2. Be Prepared

A bonus with this time of year is that parking's a doddle and accommodation should be cheaper if you're planning a full weekend of photography. 

Don't forget to check the all-important weather forecast and make sure you note down what time the tide will be on its way back in. If you don't,  you could find yourself paddling through saltwater with your camera gear if you do head for the beach. 

 

3. Light And Feel

Low-angled light will give colourful beach huts more punch while a bright blue sky dotted with white clouds will add a bit of life to what can be drab looking shops and piers. 

If you find that Mother Nature has realised you're at the coast and as a result predictably turns the sky grey don't be too down-hearted as a storm brewing over the sea will always look good. To give the sky more detail fit an ND filter to your lens but if it's still too dull and flat, shoot the scene anyway and try converting it to mono when you're back in front of your computer. If all else fails, there's always the option to shoot some macro detail of nets, ropes and wet pebbles on the beach. Just remember to fill the frame to give your shots more impact. 

 

  4. Photograph People

The ice-cream seller may be long gone but you will get the odd resident, brave surfer and fishermen still walking around the empty seaside towns. Even though it's always polite to ask before you take your shot, sometimes candids, where you snap a couple of shots without them knowing you're doing so, do work better. Many people won't mind you taking their photograph if you ask politely enough though so don't be afraid to approach someone with your camera and a pleasant smile. Try getting in close if they have a strong face that will make a good character portrait then stand back to give the shot more context. This can work well with a lonely surfer stood on a damp, deserted beach or with a café owner clearing tables in an empty shop. 

5. Life's A Beach

The pier is a photographic opportunity not to be missed at this time of year as you won't have tourists walking into your shot and morning fog can be found circling the supports, making them an eerie photographic opportunity. Go wide, shooting from the beach if possible or shoot from the top, using the pier as a leading line into your image.

In our busy modern lives, it is often complicated to find the time to shoot great autumnal images, considering the amount of research, walking and perseverance that is often involved. Big hitters like the New Forest and The Lake District are often out of reach for city dwellers, especially with a family in tow. So this coming autumn has a go at visiting an arboretum, as they make a brilliant and easy alternative, keeping the kids amused with throwing leaves at each other while you take some breathtaking opportunities to capture autumnal photography.

1. What kit is best?

When it comes to kit, fit a medium telephoto lens to your DSLR as it'll be particularly handy for capturing leaf and branch detail. Make sure you pocket your macro lens too. Don't forget your wellies when you visit an Arboretum as they do get a lot of visitors and the ground gets well-trodden.  

2. Why are arboretums so good as photographic locations?

Right, back to arboretums! As they are collections of trees from various continents, this can be just the ticket to an easy shoot. Horticultural planners include sensational visual displays to attract visitors in their thousands, to places like Westonbirt Arboretum in Gloucestershire to name one of the UK’s favourites. Yet it's not as simple as falling off a log, you need good sunshine and a well-timed visit to get the best from the colours and the day.

3. Any particularly stunning trees I should look out for?

There are two tree species to look out for - Maples and Acers. Most arboretums have these trees in their collection and they feature heavily in annual publicity shots (hence generating a huge car parking revenue each year, vital to the arboretum's upkeep). Westonbirt is not cheap to get in, but consider where this money is actually going.

4. What conditions are best?

It's best to wait for sunshine to give dimension to the trees, but if the day starts a bit flat and dull, all is not necessarily lost. Concentrate on staging some ideas, such as putting leaves on interesting textures or making arrangements of leaves themselves.

Also, try the good old zoom burst technique. Put an ND filter on the lens, set an aperture of f/16 and the ISO as low as possible. This should give a long shutter speed, maybe a few seconds. Set the camera's two-second timer, press the shutter and then zoom into the shot and create a wonderful vortex of colours. It's easy to do and is very effective.   

 

A powerful image of a Red Deer stag appearing through the morning mist has won this week’s ‘Photo of the Week’ title. Captured by Tonyd3 and titled Golden Caller, the image shows the stag mid-call, its breath visible in the golden light.

The light that cuts through the mist adds depth and atmosphere, while the backlighting defines the shape of his horns against the glowing sky. The image presents a dramatic scene, and the precise timing and control of light demonstrate real photographic skill.

Every Photo of the Week (POTW) winner will be rewarded with a Samsung 128GB PRO Plus microSDXC memory card with SD adapter, providing top-tier storage for all your creative needs across multiple devices. But that's not all! In January 2026, we’ll crown our 2025 Photo of the Year winner, who will take home the ultimate prize of a Samsung Portable 1TB SSD T7 Shield, courtesy of Samsung. It’s time to shoot, submit, and showcase your best work for a chance to win these incredible rewards!

The self-timer feature is something which is available on most camera models and it's a shutter delay that when activated, stops the shutter from firing and taking the picture when the shutter button or release is pressed for a designated amount of time. This delay is useful for a number of reasons which are listed below. 

 

1. Close-Up Work

The other advantage of having a timer is to save you having to use a cable release when the camera is mounted on a tripod or resting on a secure base. You set the timer and the delay means there's no hand contact that could potentially cause camera shake when the shutter is pressed. The 10-second delay is not really necessary for this, so that's where the shorter delays come in handy.

 

 

2. Self Portraits And Group Shots

The idea is you can take self-portraits without having to be seen stretched out as you fire the camera at arms' length. All you do is activate the timer, press the shutter release and move in front of the camera, strike a pose - all within the timer's limit - and then you'll be the focus of your photo.

It can also be used to ensure you're in a family or group shot. You can arrange a small or larger group of people and allow space for yourself, activate the timer and move into the shot. This saves you having to give the camera to the waiter or tourist to take the photo, preventing an embarrassment or even potential theft!

 

3. Low Light Photography 

As with close-up work, your camera's self-timer can be used to reduce the chances of camera shake spoiling your shots when working in low light. At this time of year, your self-timer will be useful in dark woodland where you may be photographing close-ups of fungi. Again, you won't need a really long delay, a couple of seconds will be fine. 

 

 

4. Check Your Focus

There are a few things to do to help improve your photos when using the self-timer. The first is ensuring accurate focus. If you're doing a self-portrait you won't be in the photo when you press the shutter and as a result, the picture could end up blurry as the camera could lock focus on the background. One way around this is to point the camera at something that is at the same distance that you will be when the photo is taken. Press the shutter release and recompose before running in front of the camera. In a group shot this is easy - make sure you either focus on a person to the side if you're going to be in the centre or focus on the centre person and join the group at the edge.

 

5. Check The Edges Of The Frame

The other thing to avoid is a table edge being in the frame when you are taking a group shot in a restaurant or bar and decide to use a nearby table as support. The camera, when set to wide-angle, may pick up an edge of the support. Move the camera so it's right at the edge of the table, making sure it's balanced well and cannot fall off!

Another problem you may be faced with when resting the camera on a flat surface is that the height may not be right when you look through the viewfinder and often the heads or feet of your group will be cut off. If this happens, try and angle the camera so all of your group is in the shot.

 

The beauty of this time of year is that the sun rises at a more reasonable hour so an early morning jaunt to the woods isn't as painful as it was a few weeks ago. To top this already good news off, the chances of you finding mist circling around the trees is a lot higher at this time of year and when you mix this with your rising sun, you have the chance to capture strong beams of light as they burst through the trees.

 

1. Hope The Mist Is Right

You have to have the right type of mist for this - too thick and you won't be able to see the end of your nose let alone a sunbeam but if it's too thin there won't be enough moisture in the air for the light to reflect off. Read up on fog and mist techniques to become an expert at dealing with it. 

 

2. Take A Good Look At The Trees

It can be a little hit and miss but when the right density of mist does appear, you'll be able to capture some cracking shots as long as you have the right number of trees. Too many and you'll have broken, uneven patches of light but if there's too few the light will flood the open spaces leaving you with plenty of light but no beams. Your best bet is to quickly move to several locations to judge what looks the best before setting up camp. We say move quickly as the mist can vanish and the light can change quickly.

This also means you need to work quickly so do be familiar with your camera's controls and how you can adjust apertures etc. quickly to maximise your opportunities. Some cameras have dedicated dials you can assign specific controls to or offer ways you can access a particular setting more quickly.    3. Position Yourself In The Right Place For this to work properly you need to be shooting into the sun. Of course, this means you could have problems with flare but if you position yourself so the sun's hidden by a tree or foliage the light won't be as bright.
  4. Metering Tips

Metering is another tricky subject when you're working with direct sunlight and shadowy areas you don't want to lose too much detail in. To keep as much detail as possible don't meter from the direction of the sun instead, pick an area away from the light then compose your shot.

Image Credit: Tittu Shaji Thomas/tpoty.com

 

• Deadline approaching — enter by October 13, 2025
• £10,000 cash prize package
• NEW - a 7-day cultural journey in Sri Lanka courtesy of Visit Sri Lanka and Jetwing Hotels
• NEW - 5 Rising Talent winners to experience an exclusive international mentorship in Sri Lanka, including with some of the nation’s leading wildlife photographers 
• NEW - Travel Image of the Year automatically selected from all entries
• Free 30-day trial of Radiant Photo software for all entrants — approved within competition rules

 

The Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY) awards — widely regarded as the world’s most prestigious travel photography award — are issuing their final call for entries. Now in its 23rd year, TPOTY is a showcase for the very best in travel imagery, attracting entries from more than 158 countries and producing winners representing 57 nationalities for both established and emerging photographers.

 

What sets TPOTY apart:

• A truly global stage — with photographers from every continent represented
• Run by photographers, for photographers, with copyright fully protected
• World-class judging by leading photographers, editors, and industry experts
• A platform that has launched careers, with winning work published in leading international outlets and exhibited around the world

 

Prizes with Impact

This year’s overall Travel Photographer of the Year will receive:

• A significant cash award
• A once-in-a-lifetime 7-day trip to Sri Lanka, supported by Visit Sri Lanka and Jetwing Hotels
• An exclusive portfolio review with a top New York agent

The overall winner is chosen from the portfolio category entries.

 

Image Credit: Roie Galitz/tpoty.com

 

Calling all amateur and semi-pro photographers

In addition, five winners of the Rising Talent category will take part in a mentorship program in Sri Lanka, guided by two of the nation’s leading wildlife photographers, thanks to the generous support of Visit Sri Lanka and Jetwing Hotels.

 

Create impact with your images

To help all entrants prepare and use software which is not AI, sponsor Radiant Photo is offering every participant a 30-day free trial of its image editing software (link on TPOTY website), with all winners receiving a lifetime license. Radiant Photo uses non-generative AI and fully permitted under TPOTY’s competition rules.

 

Categories

Travel embraces many genres so TPOTY showcases the best in contemporary colour and B&W photography in wildlife, culture, landscapes, portraits, climate, adventures, video, and young talent, with awards for both portfolios and single images. Entry is open to everyone and worldwide — whether you’re a seasoned professional or a first-time explorer.

 

Chris Coe, TPOTY Founder, said: “Each year TPOTY reveals new perspectives from every corner of the world. These photographs aren’t just images — they’re invitations to step into someone else’s world.”

Past winner Athanasios Maloukos (Greece) said: “After winning TPOTY, my images were published in 111 publications worldwide. The recognition transformed my career.”

Deadline: October 13, 2025

Entries close soon. Don’t miss your chance to take your place on the world stage.

Enter now!

  As photographers, when we think of mood, we think of stormy, dark and dramatic, but mood can equally relate to any lighting type that evokes a feeling. Photographically then, mood can readily be associated with weather conditions – calm and misty mornings, dramatic cloudy days with sunbeams and often, the most dramatic mood can be obtained on those days you might think offer less promise – as it only takes a break in stormy clouds to give a magnificent, moody image.

 

How To Capture Mood In Your Images

To capture dark and dramatic mood successfully, be prepared to wait for breaks in the weather, sometimes you just have to sit out the rainy spells – in the car if you're lucky; but when the weather breaks you can be rewarded with a few minutes really exciting lighting.

When the light does come, be prepared to work quickly. Good lighting doesn't wait for the photographer, and often its over just as quickly as it arrived, so think in advance whether you are going to need a graduated ND filter, or if you need to bracket the shot to put together an HDR (High Dynamic Range) picture. Don't wait for the light before considering that you need a filter or need to bracket exposures to cope with the contrast range, as when the light's gone – it's gone. Checking your histogram after the event to find that your exposure is wrong it's too late – you can't bring it back.

For misty, early morning moody images, again the weather forecast is an essential pre-planner – there is no point sleeping in to find that you've just missed a delicate, moody sunrise. Similarly, there is little point getting up early to find the weather isn't ideal.

The key to capturing mood is to pick the right day and location – as is all landscape photography, but the real secret is to be fully prepared for when the "mood" arrives.

Esquisse Camera is developing a premium, ultra-compact digital camera designed to be carried everywhere and used often. It combines a large Four Thirds sensor with a durable, all-metal body, intuitive manual controls, and compatibility with the Micro Four Thirds lens system.

This camera is small enough to fit in a coat pocket and light enough to bring along without a second thought. Built for photographers who value simplicity, quality, and portability, the Esquisse Camera offers an alternative to the bulky and complex systems that are often left behind.

Specifications are targets and may evolve during development.

 

Key Features

 

Simple Controls

The Esquisse Camera features physical dials for ISO and exposure compensation, a clickable control wheel, two customizable function buttons, and a responsive touchscreen. All essential settings are within reach, so photographers can stay focused on the image.

 

Durable Build

Each camera body is milled from a single block of aluminum for strength and longevity. The clean, modern design is accented with fine leather for comfort and grip. It is dust and splash resistant.

 

Designed for Portability

Measuring just 105 × 70 × 35 mm and weighing under 350 grams, the Esquisse Camera is smaller than a deck of cards. It is made to be carried all day, every day.

 

Excellent Image Quality

A 20MP+ Four Thirds sensor delivers strong low-light performance and wide dynamic range. The camera is designed for compatibility with Micro Four Thirds lenses, including autofocus support, giving photographers access to a large selection of high-quality, compact lenses.

Technical Specifications (Targeted)

 

Category Item Intended specifications Sensor & Image Quality

Sensor Type

ISO Range

Autofocus

Dynamic Range

20MP+ Four Thirds CMOS

200 - 25,600

Multi-point AF System

13 stops

Physical & Connectivity

Dimensions

Weight

Battery Life

Connectivity

105 × 70 × 35 mm

350g (body only)

300+ shots

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C

Display & Controls

Rear Screen

Viewfinder

Control Layout

 

Weather Sealing

3" touchscreen

3.69M-dot OLED EVF

ISO and exposure compensation dials, clickable wheel at the back, 2 function buttons

Dust and splash resistant

Storage & Mount

Storage

Lens Mount

Lens Compatibility

Body Material

256 GB Internal Storage

Micro Four Thirds

All MFT lenses with full AF support

All aluminum unibody

 

Specifications may change during development.

 

Price and Availability

 

The Esquisse Camera is expected to retail between $1,500 and $2,000 USD (or local equivalent). It is currently in development, with the first production units scheduled for delivery in late 2026.

For more information, please visit the Esquisse Camera website.

Image Credit: Society of International Nature and Wildlife Photographers (SINWP)

 

The Society of International Nature and Wildlife Photographers (SINWP) is urging photographers worldwide to submit their best bird images now - the Bird Photographer of the Year 2025 competition closes on 31 October 2025.

This prestigious contest, run in aid of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), has raised over £16,138 to date through past competitions.

With entry priced at a minimum of £1 per image, 100% of donations go directly to the RSPB to support their vital work in protecting avian wildlife and habitats.

“We are thrilled by the response so far, but time is running out,” said Colin Jones, SINWP CEO. “We strongly encourage all bird photographers - from hobbyists to professionals - to enter their best work before the deadline. Together, we can make a significant contribution to the RSPB and elevate awareness of birds and their conservation.”

 

Key Competition Details

Closing date: 31 October 2025

Entry fee: Minimum £1 per image (no maximum)

Prizes: The overall winner receives the Bird Photographer of the Year 2025 trophy and certificate, one year’s free professional membership of SINWP, a copy of the Anthropics Collection, among other rewards.

 

For details on how to enter see here https://sinwp.com/bird/

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to upgrade your action camera, this might be it. DJI’s new Osmo Action 5 Pro Essential Combo has just dropped in price, and it’s easily one of the most capable compact cameras we’ve seen this year. With waterproofing, class-leading stabilization and crisp dual touchscreens, it’s built for anyone who wants to capture life’s fast moments without the bulk or cost of a full setup.

This deal is time-sensitive and stock may fluctuate rapidly.

View this deal here - Click here to view / purchase the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Essential Combo on Amazon

Why this deal matters: You get DJI’s latest 1/1.3″ sensor, dual OLED touchscreens, advanced stabilization, and waterproof capability in a more minimalist, cost-optimized package.

What We Like

• Pro-grade imaging in compact form – The 1/1.3″ sensor (with ~2.4 µm effective pixel size) gives you better low-light performance and an improved dynamic range over older action cams. Amazon
• Dual OLED touchscreens – Front and rear displays make framing, monitoring, and adjusting settings far more intuitive (especially for vlogging or POV mounting). Amazon
• Top-tier stabilization / horizon correction – DJI’s 360° HorizonSteady keeps your footage level even through aggressive motion. Amazon
• Waterproof & rugged – Rated IP68 to 20 m without a case, enabling you to go underwater or in the elements straight away. Amazon
• Decent battery life in cold / extreme conditions – The included Extreme Battery Plus (1,950 mAh) is quoted to last ~4 hours (3.6 hours at –20 °C) in constrained conditions. Amazon

Things to Watch Out / Caveats

• Essential bundle only – You get core components (camera, battery, frame, mount) — no extra accessories (e.g. extra batteries, filters) are included. Buyers wanting a full kit may find the “Adventure / Pro” bundles more complete.
• Price volatility — Because this is a new release, prices and stock may vary quickly; what’s true now may shift tomorrow.
• Regional warranty / import risk — If buying from Amazon US (or a non-local retailer), check warranty coverage and shipping / import fees for your region.
• Lens / accessories ecosystem still expanding — While DJI’s action ecosystem is mature, some niche accessories or third-party mounts may lag behind more established brands.

Performance & Use-Case Expectations

From DJI’s specs and our understanding of similar models:

• For action sports, motorcycling, biking, surfing, skiing — this camera should deliver smooth, stable footage with horizon correction, even in challenging light.
• For vlogging / POV shooting, the dual screens and voice commands give you more flexibility than many prior action cams.
• For underwater / extreme environments, the IP68 rating allows direct use without housing, but for deeper dives or rugged conditions you might still prefer a protective housing.
• For hybrid content creators who mix action clips with B-roll / studio content — it’s a solid companion, though image quality will still be behind larger sensor mirrorless cameras in low light.

If you don’t need the advanced features (dual screens, stabilization, 4K/120), a more basic action cam may suffice — but this deal narrows the premium gap.

Who Should Buy & Who Might Wait

Buy now if you:

• Want a premium action cam without paying for full “Pro / Adventure” bundles.
• Regularly shoot in motion, extreme angles, or want excellent stabilization.
• Value compact form + versatile mounting over carrying large rigs.

Consider waiting if you:

• Already own a capable action cam and only need incremental improvement.
• Want more included accessories out of the box.
• Are cautious of buying from overseas sellers (warranty / returns risk).

Check the Deal Here

Click here to view / purchase the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Essential Combo on Amazon

Prices and availability are subject to change — always verify before ordering.

Final Thoughts

This is a strong entry-level “Pro” deal not the full package, but enough to unlock many of DJI’s headline features at a leaner cost. For creators who don’t want to carry extra gear, the Essential Combo makes smart trade-offs.

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Mountain photography, both on and off these magnificent natural structures, is something photographers can capture images of all year round, but there's something about the Autumn and Winter seasons which add an extra level of 'wow' to these landscape shots. For your next venture up a mountain or to one of our many national parks where mountain ranges decorate the horizon, here are 8 pieces of advice that'll have you capturing breathtaking mountain shots in no-time at all.

 

1. Safety First 

This can be a tricky subject in winter as you need to ensure you remain safe at all times. Walking in snow is one thing but mountains tend to also be covered with ice and have erratic weather conditions. Before you set off, know your ability, wear the right clothing and take the right walking equipment including phone, compass and map. You should also carry a whistle which can be used to attract attention if you need help.

2. Pack Your Filters

Don't leave home without a UV filter as not only does it protect the lens from the elements but it will cut the levels of UV which are often high in the mountains, especially in sunny conditions.

If it’s sunny and there’s snow use a polarising filter. The polariser is a great tool to help control glare and light reflection from the snow. Take care not to over polarise a blue sky in the mountains, though.

The ND Grad filter is essential for reducing the contrast difference between the sky and ground. Landscape photographer Robin Whalley tends to carry a 2 stop and 3 stop (0.6 and 0.9) wrapped in a filter cloth and placed in his pocket when photographing mountain landscapes.

 

 

3. Lens Choices 

The lens choice for shooting in the mountains is wide-angle. A longer lens can also be useful for picking out details, but a zoom will probably allow you to capture the best the mountain has to offer. When using longer lenses, don't forget that you need a tripod that can support their weight.

 

4. Capture Distance And Height 

When shooting from the mountainside or summit the best approach to composition is to emphasise distance and height. Use a wide-angle lens and include something to act as foreground interest. Lenses wider than 24mm can be used successfully but the feeling of distance and height tends to diminish the wider you go.

 

 

5. Use Small Apertures 

The need to include foreground interest as well as keep the distant hills in good focus probably means you need to stop your lens down to quite a small aperture, perhaps f/16.0 or smaller. If you are also using filters, for example, a polariser you might find slow shutter speeds a problem. Robin Whalley says: "I used to use a walking pole and place the camera lens through the hand loop to support it, giving me a few extra stops of stability. Now I use a monopod which doubles as a walking pole and which I have used successfully with shots with over 0.5-second exposure."

 

6. Creating The 'Wow' Factor When shooting from the mountain you want the viewer to gain a sense of the place, so when they look at the shot they almost feel like they were actually there with you. To do this, as well as using a wide-angle lens, use a panoramic composition as this will help the viewer appreciate the scale of the location but again, it doesn’t emphasise the dramatic height of the mountain, something we'll discuss further down the page.      

 

7. Correct Exposures 

If you are shooting in snowy conditions, you should also watch out for the cameras light meter being fooled into underexposing the scene. Check your histogram regularly after shots and use your cameras exposure compensation adjustment if necessary to increase the exposure.

 

8. Off The Mountain 

This option is far more accessible to most people and can provide equally if not more impressive images. When people think of dramatic mountain scenery, it’s often shots taken of the mountain from a normal altitude that they think of.

When shooting off the mountain the best lens is a long telephoto, probably in excess of 100mm. This may seem counter-intuitive but wide-angle lenses seldom give the most drama. They will emphasise the foreground but diminish the background, almost making it shrink into the horizon. The telephoto lens in contrast will emphasise the size of the mountain and allow you to focus in on the rugged details. 

In summary, decide on your approach, on or off the mountain, then use the right equipment to give a composition that will best connect the viewer with the scene.

The zoom lengths on compact cameras keep growing and even though this makes more photographic subjects accessible to compact users, it does bring one problem and that's camera shake.

Manufacturers do install modes and features to help combat the issue, such as the shake reduction, but there are still a number of things that you can do to ensure your images are sharp every time.

 

1. Use A Support

When you think of a camera that sits on a tripod your first thoughts will probably be of a DSLR but just because you're using a camera with a body much smaller than a DSLR doesn't mean you shouldn't use a support. This can be a tripod, monopod, something smaller such as a Gorilla Pod or even a beanbag. 
 

 

2. Use Your Camera's Self-Timer

Even when you're using a support the small action of pressing the shutter button can still move the camera slightly and cause shake. As a result, when shooting a static subject you can use your camera's self-timer function so there's a delay between you pressing the shutter button and the exposure beginning. 
 

3. Increase The ISO

As longer shutter speeds mean the camera has to be held still for longer periods of time, shake can be a problem, particularly when working hand-held. To increase the shutter speed you can switch to a higher ISO but do take care when increasing ISOs as noise will be introduced at some levels. Where possible, try to stay below ISO400. If long shutter speeds are a must, always use a support as working without one will just result in shake spoiling your shots.
 

4. Check The Image On Your LCD

As images can be previewed on the built-in LCD screens available on compact cameras it means that shots can be checked for sharpness before leaving the location you're shooting in. However, it's not always that easy to tell if a shot is sharp by just checking the screen so if your camera has the option, it's always worth using the zoom magnifier when previewing to get a closer look at the shot. 

 

 

5. Edit In Post Production

You can slightly sharpen images in various pieces of editing software but don't overdo it as the shot won't look right. Boosting the contrast a little can help as well, but again don't go too mad with it. There are ways to reduce noise, too if high noise is a problem. 

 

The 2025 UK Photographic Roadshow Tour has wrapped up after a hugely successful series of nine events that brought together photographers, industry experts, and leading brands in a celebration of creativity, learning, and community.

Kicking off in April in Motherwell and travelling through Kendal, Walsall, Wetherby, Nottingham, Worcester, Somerset, Reading, and Kent, the Roadshows once again proved themselves as a must-attend highlight on the UK photography calendar.

Each venue offered a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where photographers could connect with peers, test the latest equipment, and leave with fresh ideas to elevate their craft.

 

 

Inspiring Speaker Line-Up

This year’s programme featured an outstanding roster of speakers including Scott Johnson, Simon Burfoot, Jeff Brown, Alex Denham, Oliver Wheeldon, Raj Khepar, Gary Hill, Rebecca Douglas, Mr Whisper, and Luke Davis. Covering everything from wedding photography and creative lighting to business growth and personal branding, their sessions inspired delegates and provided valuable takeaways for photographers at every stage of their journey.

 

 

Exhibitor Highlights

The trade areas were packed with innovation and hands-on opportunities.

• Nikon ZR made its UK public debut at the September Roadshows, drawing huge interest from delegates.
• Click Backdrops unveiled their brand-new foldable fabric backdrops, which quickly became a talking point on the show floor.
• Canon, Sony, Fujifilm, and Nikon all showcased their latest cameras and lenses, giving photographers the chance to test-drive cutting-edge technology.
• Other standout exhibitors included 3 Legged Thing, Elinchrom, Permajet, Camera Centre UK, MagMod, Gomatic, Loxley Colour, Aaduki Multimedia Insurance, Graphistudio, Evoto, The Society of Photographers, Praetego, Bump2Baby, and Professional Imagemaker.

 

 

The Roadshow Experience

Delegates enjoyed live demonstrations, exclusive show offers, and the chance to network with fellow professionals. The mix of expert talks, product showcases, and a friendly community spirit reinforced why the Roadshows remain such an important fixture for UK photographers.

Thank You

The organisers extend a heartfelt thank you to every speaker, exhibitor, venue, and delegate who contributed to the 2025 Roadshow’s success. Your enthusiasm and support are what make these events possible.

Looking Ahead: London Photo Convention & Trade Show 2026

Next year’s flagship event, the London Photo Convention & Trade Show 2026, will take place at Novotel London West, Hammersmith, 14–17 January 2026.

Highlights include:

• Trade Show (15–17 Jan) – Pre-register before 1 January 2026 for FREE entry, or pay £10 on the door.
• Four days of Masterclasses covering lighting, editing, business, and creative storytelling.
• Exclusive Superclasses – small-group, hands-on workshops for photographers wanting to push their skills further.
• Business School – a one-day intensive designed to help photographers grow profitable, sustainable businesses.
• 20×16” Print Competition – with live judging sessions and a gallery of merited images.
• Awards Presentation Evening – a glamorous celebration of photographic excellence.

For more information, please visit The Society of Photographers website.

 

A good support is a particularly important tool for landscape photographers. Even if you're a compact camera user you should consider purchasing a tripod. If you're still not convinced that fastening a tripod to your rucksack isn't a good idea when you're off on your walk, have a read of our ten reasons why we believe you should.

 

1. Use longer lenses more comfortably with a tripod

If you planning on taking some long as well as wide lenses out with you they tend to be more prone to camera shake so having a tripod will keep your shots sharp. However, if you do want to work hand-held make sure you don't use a shutter speed that's lower than your focal length. Some take this further and say your shutter speed should be at least double the focal length you're using.

  2. Easily adjust height

If you have a sky that's bursting with colourful sunset shades and want to make more of a feature of it, adjust the height of your tripod so more sky is in frame than land. We know you can just raise your hands up higher but holding your hands up in the air isn't very comfortable and any movement, even a small sway, could add unwanted blur to your shot. If you do want to adjust the height, make sure you pull all the legs out to their maximum length before using the centre column. Why? Well, even though it's easier to adjust than three legs, the support won't be as sturdy.

  3. Create slower shutter speed images easily

If you're planning on taking photos that turn the movement of waterfalls, rivers and waves into smooth, dry ice-like textures, you'll need slower shutter speeds. The problem with slower shutter speeds is they're not a great choice when working hand-held as you have to stay very still to stop shake and if you don't, blur will creep into your shot. However, stick your camera on a tripod and you can set shutter speeds that are many minutes long and shake won't factor into it. While we are talking about shake, try using a remote release or the camera's self-timer to fire the shutter to stop any small movement that you moving your hand away from the camera may create.

 

 

4. Create multiple exposures

If you're shooting a scene where the camera can't handle all of the different exposure levels present, you may want to try shoot a series of separate shots that each focus on the dark, middle and light parts of the image which are then combined to create one balanced exposure. If you're unsure whether the location you're at will work better with HDR, take a few sample shots and have a look at the areas that are in shadow. If you think there's detail that's lost in these darker areas that will improve your photograph then have a try at HDR.

A tripod is essential for this type of photography as the smallest of movements can adjust your framing which means your shots won't line up when you try to merge them together. As a result, once you've framed up, lock your camera's position, ensuring all screws are fastened tightly and that all leg locks won't come loose.

  5. Create smooth panoramas

If you want to shoot some landscape panoramas, having a tripod will help keep your shots steady and make them easier to stitch together once back in front of the computer. Start at either the left or right of the image, whichever you're more comfortable with, and allow for some overlap between each frame. It's always worth doing a 'dummy run' so you can make sure everything you want in the scene can be captured and to double-check you have enough overlap between each shot. It is important that focus is not adjusted during the panorama so take care not to touch the focus barrel once you have focused and set your white-balance manually so you don't have to make small tweaks to individual shots once back home. For scenes with details much closer to the front of the frame you'll need to use a panoramic head.

 

6. Take your time to compose properly

We know it's been said quite a few times but it doesn't hurt to mention it again, particularly to those who are new to landscape photography. What are we talking about? Well, the actual process of setting up your tripod, putting your camera through it and looking through the viewfinder does take some time and as a result, it slows you down and makes you think more about the shot you're taking. If you didn't have a tripod with you it would be very easy to take your camera out of its bag, fire off a few shots quickly and move on to a new location without really giving much thought about composition and the overall shot you're trying to achieve.

 

  7. More stability in windy weather 

If you find the weather turns a little blustery you'll need a sturdy tripod as unlike us photographers, they're better at balancing so won't get blown and pushed around as easily. If you find you need a little more weight and your tripod features a centre column hook, you can hang a bag of stones or other weighty objects off it to balance the tripod. For lighter tripods, use your body as a shield from the wind. Sticking spiked feet into the ground will also help keep the tripod still.

 

8. Set up low angle landscapes

For something a little different, adjust your tripod legs so you can shoot lower to the ground. This can give foreground detail more emphasis, really changing the feel of your landscape shot.

  9. Set up in water, use a remote trigger 

Sometimes you have to get your feet wet to get the shot you want but trying to stand upright in water that's moving on what can be slippy rocks is hard enough on your own, without a camera in your hands. To minimise the chances of you dropping your camera in the water, put it on a tripod. If the tripod doesn't have to be too far in the water you could also use a remote release/cable to fire the shutter from the water's edge rather than getting in yourself. Do make sure your tripod won't topple over and if you have them, use spiked feet to bed the tripod into the floor. If you're shooting at the coast, remember to clean your tripod after dunking it in the sea as saltwater will rust it.

  10. Capture images with low light minus movement blur

Shooting at sunrise, sunset or during the night so you can capture a sky full of stars, requires the use of slower shutter speeds, which, as mentioned, means you'll have to use a tripod as working hand-held can result in shake spoiling your shot. You can try nudging your ISO up to quicken your shutter speed but not all cameras produce good-quality shots when higher ISOs are used so the safest option is to take your tripod with you so you can use longer shutter speeds.

 

 

Britain is full of wildlife, and autumn's a great time to get out and capture a few shots of the small mammals, birds, deer and other creatures that can be found here.
 

1. Birds

As we head towards winter it gets harder for birds to find natural food so by placing feeders in your garden with different types of food in (fat and nuts) you'll be able to attract different species of bird that you can photograph. An important side note to remember is to not remove the feeders when you've finished as the birds may have become reliant on your garden as a source of food.

Capturing shots of these small, shy creatures isn't as easy as dashing out into your garden with your camera and snapping a quick shot. You need to place branches near feeders to give you more natural-looking shots, wait patiently and quietly for your subject to land and you'll need to know your gear well before heading out onto your lawn. Long lenses are essential if you want to capture frame-filling shots and for pin-sharp images, a tripod is a must.

For more in-depth tips on photographing birds, take a look at these articles:

• Photographing Garden Birds
• How To Photograph Birds In Your Garden
• Tips On Photographing Garden Birds
• Tips On Photographing Robins

  2. Spiders And Webs

Spiders seem to be everywhere at this time of year and they make great photographic subjects themselves (if you don't mind getting close) but for those who like to keep a bit more distance, have a go at photographing their webs instead. They're very photogenic on a frosty morning or after it's rained. For more tips, take a look at this technique: Spider Web Photography.
 

 

3. Mammals

Many of the mammals, big and small, are shy so long lenses, patience and the ability to stay hidden are generally a must when photographing them.

Squirrels, who'll be on the hunt for food at this time of year, are a popular photographic subject but do take something waterproof with you when heading out to photograph them as you can end up laying on the damp ground to get a shot of them foraging for food. Using bait is a good way to attract squirrels and you can place it in front of less busy backgrounds so you capture a better-looking shot. Fore more squirrel photography tips, take a look at this article: Photographing Red Squirrels.

It's mating season for deer which means there are plenty of action shots waiting to be captured of males fighting. Their antlers look particularly impressive at this time of year and their shape can look great when silhouetted against the morning light. Throw in some mist and autumnal shades and you have the recipe for a successful wildlife shoot starting to come together. You will need a long lens so you don't spook them and it's safer for you to work with quite a bit of distance between you and your subject anyway. Remember to approach from downwind and if you have it, camouflage clothing will help you blend in with your surroundings more.

October to December is breeding season for a lot of seal colonies around the shores of Britain and this is when they come to shore, making locations like Donna Nook on the east coast very popular with wildlife photographers. If you are planning a trip to photograph pups and their mothers please always put the animals' welfare first and respect the location you're photographing. You'll generally need a telephoto lens to capture a decent image, although some seals can be found close to paths. Take a monopod if you're planning on walking and don't always shoot from a standing position as getting low down will give your shots a better perspective.

For more seal photography tips, take a look at these articles:

• Photographing Seals
• Seal Photography  

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The latest winner of our popular daily photography theme which takes place in our forums have been chosen and congratulations go to AndyPedant (Day 6 - 'Orange' Colour).

 

Daily Theme Runners-Up

If you didn't win this time, keep uploading your images to the daily competition forum for another chance to win! If you're new to the Daily Theme, you can find out more about it in the Daily Theme Q&A. 

Well done to our latest runners-up, too, whose images you can take a look at below.

  Day 1

Autumn Landscapes

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Day 2

Autumn Abstracts

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Day 3

Spider's Web

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  Day 4

Gardens In Autumn

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Day 5

Rainy Days

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Day 7

Autumn Reflections

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Day 8

Creative Indoor Shot

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You’ll find the Daily Themes, along with other great photo competitions, over in our Forum. Take a look to see the latest daily photo contests. Open to all levels of photographer, you’re sure to find a photography competition to enter. Why not share details of competitions with our community? Join the camaraderie and upload an image to our Gallery.

 

One aspect of photography that is often misunderstood is that when you take a picture you are not capturing an instant but rather a period in time. During this period things happen and the choices you make when taking your picture will fundamentally change the results you get. Movement in photographs should be captured deliberately, making sure that it looks like that was the plan. A picture that is just a little blurred will usually look just that, a little blurred. 

Any camera can capture movement but the amount of control you have will determine the amount of movement that you are able to show. The longer the shutter speed the more movement can be captured. Consider the best camera modes to use for your situation. 

For most pictures featuring movement, you should use a tripod but there will be times when just shooting plenty of pictures hand-held will be a better strategy.
 

1. Techniques to adopt

The technique you need to adopt will depend upon what you are trying to say. Digitally you can shoot and review what is happening and if the movement is too much use a faster speed; if they are too ‘static’ use a slower speed. Typically you should try shooting at about 1/15th or 1/30th with a reasonably fast subject. Panning can be done on a tripod, but the results will be quite different. It is essential if using a tripod (or monopod) that the camera should be able to follow the action accurately if the moving action is at an angle to the camera movement you will struggle to get usable pictures. 

 

2. Blur can be good

However, this doesn't mean you have to keep the subject sharp. In this shot of the Tour de France, nothing is really sharp, but there is a clear difference between the blurriness of the crowd and the slightly sharper rider and this makes the picture more dynamic. 
 

3. But does the camera need to move?

Sometimes it is not necessary for the camera to be moving at all. Fixing the camera on a tripod and letting the subject move will give an altogether different result. This same technique can be used at night to get car lights on the roads which can be a very effective way of showing movement. Machinery is also a good source of subject as they often look much more interesting in action than at rest – or frozen with flash. Panning can help you to keep the subject sharp.

In some situations, flash can be used though; if you set the camera to slow-sync you can have the combination of a blurred image with a sharp one overlaid on it. If possible set the camera to ‘rear’ or ‘second curtain’ sync or the subject will appear to be moving backwards.

Whatever you approach, though, try and make the movement you capture to say something about the subject – that is what will make the picture work.