Clifton Cameras Blog - Photo and Video Tips and Techniques

Lensgo Smoke B Review

• 17 Apr 2024

A look into the creative possibilities of a handheld fog machine. Read our Lensgo Smoke B Review for all the tips and tricks.

Beginners Guide to Architecture Photography

• 14 Jul 2023

Getting started in architecture photography or just looking for a new way to improve your skills, we have everything covered in this blog, including what the mysterious Tilt Shift lens is!

Get Hands On With Film photography

• 12 May 2023

In recent years there has been a revival in the popularity of analogue film photography. Discover what to look out for when buying a second-hand film camera, what the different styles of film cameras are, what film is available and how you might even go about developing your own film at home. 

Getting Started With Landscape Photography

• 11 Nov 2022

Landscape photography. A diverse and impactful genre. Learn how to master the craft with tips and techniques. From gear, to filters, to how to tell a story.

Why every Photographer needs an External Monitor

• 9 Sep 2022

Do photographers really need an external monitor? BenQ ambassador, Antony Zacharias, shares his top tips and techniques for streamlining your workflow and what to look out for.

Photographing the Royal International Air Tattoo – A Guide to Aviation Photography

• 11 Aug 2022

Get ready for RIAT. Top tips and tricks on creating incredible photographs of incredible aircraft. Where the best places to stand are. And what you can expect throughout this legendary weekend.

The Best Monitor Setup for Photo Editing 2022

• 4 Apr 2022

Why buy a monitor? Optimise your workflow with the best monitor setups for photo and video editing. Plus learn how to set up a shot to edit with true colour.

Introduction to Gel Lighting Photography

• 3 Aug 2021

Have you ever wanted to delve into gel lighting photography but don't know where to start, or even know what it is?! In this blog from our own gel lighting pro, Lauren, she'll break down the basics of gel lighting photography and how you can add a creative twist to your portraiture and product photography.

PGYTECH Mantispod Vlogging Tripod Tips & Tricks

• 30 Jun 2021

Take a look at the new Mantispod and Mantispod Pro Vlogging Tripods from PGYTECH that everyone is raving about. Winners of the 2021 Red Dot Design Award, this handgrip/mini tripod is revolutionising the way that vloggers can capture their life. 

Understanding Cinelenses: What is a T-Stop?

• 30 Jun 2021

Ever wondered what the T-Stop number on the side of a Cine lens is? Well, the mystery is over as we take a dive into what this little number means and is it the same as the F-Stop?

Top Tips for Shooting Square with the SQ1

• 17 May 2021

Looking for that Instagram-ready, Polaroid classic, 1:1 Square feel? The Fujifilm Instax SQ1 is the perfect instant camera for just that and we have some top tips on how to use it.

Sony Imaging Edge - Make your Sony Camera your webcam

• 18 Feb 2021

Learn how to use Sony Imaging Edge software to turn your compatible Sony Camera into your new webcam.

How to get creative on your photo walks in 2021

• 8 Jan 2021

In these testing times, why not make your daily exercise a way of developing your photography skills? We have some top tips on how to get creative on your photography walks in 2020.

Fujifilm X Series Sports Photography with Jeff Carter

• 12 Oct 2020

Learn from the master that is Jeff Carter of MacLean Photographic. Jeff talks through how to plan your motorsport photography and even how to capture those jaw-dropping panning shots plus SO much more.

7 Essential Travel Photography Tips

• 27 Jan 2020

If you want to get better at taking pictures on your travels then have a read of our top 7 essential tips for travel photography.

Working with Models: Do's and Don'ts

• 17 Dec 2019

Photographing a professional model is a great way to develop your portrait skills and enhance your portfolio. Here are a few do's and don’ts to help you get the results you want.

What is Medium Format Photography?

• 10 Jun 2019

If you’re looking to shoot images that stand out from the crowd, perhaps it’s time to step up to medium format photography. But what is it and what difference does it make?

How to use Sony Eye AF

• 5 Jun 2019

Sony’s Eye AF has been a great asset for wedding, social and portrait photographers, and now it works with animals’ eyes! This post explains all you need to know.

Simple ways to improve your business or personal brand with photography

• 10 May 2019

Good photography can really help promote your brand or business while bad photography creates the wrong impression. We’ve got some tips for getting it right.

How to Start an Online Photography Portfolio

• 8 Apr 2019

An online portfolio is useful to both professional and amateur photographers, but how do you create one? We take you through the options.

Shooting Low Light Portraits with the Canon EOS R at the Bristol Christmas Market

• 13 Dec 2018

Craig Pitts show us how the Canon EOS R accompanied by the new RF 50mm f1.2 performs in a low light portrait shoot at Bristol's Christmas Market. 

The best backup and organisational practice to improve your photography workflow

• 13 Dec 2018

Two of the key elements to ensuring a smooth workflow in digital photography are managing your files and backing up your photographs. Here are a couple tips on how you can better manage your data and the tools we use to manage ours.

Autofocus Systems Explained

• 16 Nov 2018

Modern cameras have increasingly sophisticated autofocus systems that can capture subjects quickly and with precise focus, but what do all those different modes do?

Focus Stacking Explained | How to Stack Focus

• 19 Oct 2018

Focus stacking is a useful technique that enables you to get front-to-back sharp images. In this post, we explain how it’s done.

How to Photograph New Born Babies

• 17 Aug 2018

A new baby can be the trigger to start taking photography more seriously and for some, it can lead to a business. Whatever your aspirations, we’ve got a few tips to help you take better baby photos.

8 Quick Tips for Posing your Model

• 8 Aug 2018

Whether you’re photographing professional models or members of your family, these simple tips will help you capture better portraits.

How to Photograph Coloured Powder Explosions

• 7 Aug 2018

If you want to have some fun with your photography, reach for some coloured powder and let rip!

How to Get Creative On Photo Walks

• 31 Jul 2018

A photo walk is a great way to meet like-minded people and learn a few things about photography. We have a few tips to help you get the most from one.

10 Quick Tips for Better Food Photography with Esther Ling

• 12 Jul 2018

Whether homemade or cooked up at your local gastropub, these days it's almost rude to let a fabulous meal go by undocumented. 

The Definitive Guide to Wedding Photography - Five Steps for Success

• 10 Jul 2018

Wedding Season is in full swing, bookings tend to peak in June and September, so this is the perfect time to outline the anatomy of a Wedding Shoot. Here are some tips for success.

Aperture Explained: What is an F-stop?

• 3 Jul 2018

Aperture size is one of the fundamental controls in photography. Understanding what it is and how to use it will help you capture more creative images. Here’s what you need to know.

How to use Bulb Mode on your DSLR or mirrorless camera

• 29 Jun 2018

If you’re interested in shooting long exposures you need to get acquainted with Bulb mode, our guide will help.

The Best Settings for Wildlife Photography on Britain's Most Biodiverse Isle - Skomer Island

• 27 Jun 2018

Skomer Island is one of Britain's most abundant nature reserves and a must visit spot for wildlife photoraphers. Here's how to get the most out of your visit.

How To: Digital Pinhole Photography

• 26 Jun 2018

Digital photography makes pinhole photography easier than ever and just as much fun as it’s always been. Here’s how to get started.

What is Back Button Focus? How do I use it?

• 20 Jun 2018

You may have heard about using back button focus and wondered what it’s for. In this post we’ll explain all you need to know to start using this handy feature.

A Beginners’ Guide to Film Photography in 2018

• 25 May 2018

Film photography is undergoing a renaissance as photographers who have grown up with digital technology discover its charms. There are also lots of photographers who started out with film going back to it, so we thought you might like a quick refresher on the key points.

Golden Hour Photography - The best time of day to shoot

• 13 Apr 2018

The best light of the day doesn’t hang around for very long so we’ve put together a few tips to help you get the most out of the golden hour.

How to clean your camera - Camera maintenance tips you need to know

• 5 Apr 2018

Everything from a camera’s body to its lens and accessories make for a significant investment. Your camera will probably get used in many different situations and environments and will need occasional maintenance to keep it working at its best.

The following guide will help you to keep your camera in top condition ready to take high-quality photos time-and-time again.

Take control of aspect ratio for better image composition

• 4 Apr 2018

Making use of your camera’s aspect ratio controls can help you develop your composition skills and enable you to take better photos.

How to Photograph Cars | The Basics

• 14 Mar 2018

You don’t have to own a supercar to try your hand at car photography. Our tips will help you get the shots you want.

How to shoot long exposures during the day

• 22 Dec 2017

A long exposure can transform a raging sea into a smooth mist and a babbling brook into soft streaks, we explain how it’s done.

A Guide to Photographing Old Buildings

• 15 Dec 2017

Cities across the UK are packed full of history-steeped architecture that makes the perfect subject matter for any photographer. This guide will explain the equipment you need to get the best shots, as well as some essential tips.

Camera WiFi Explained

• 8 Dec 2017

We explain what camera Wi-Fi connectivity is, why it’s helpful and how to use it.

Tips for Wedding Photographers from Top UK Pro John Nassari

• 16 Nov 2017

Last week we hosted a Wedding Photography Masterclass in conjunction with Olympus and professional photographer John Nassari at the beautiful Manor by the Lake in Cheltenham. Under the guidance of John, we gathered together 30 O-MD E-M1 Mark II cameras, some of our favourite clients and set about shooting 3 different sets at the Manor. 

How to shoot with motion blur

• 21 Sep 2017

The natural instinct is often to try to freeze movement in photographs but recording it with blur can sometimes result in more creative images. Here’s how it’s done.

The Art of Composition - Dos and Don’ts

• 13 Sep 2017

Have you ever noticed how two people can photograph the same scene and produce very different images? One photographer creates an attractive, memorable or thought provoking picture while the other produces something bland and easily forgetable? The difference is often down to the photographer’s understanding of composition. 

9 Tips for preserving your camera's battery power

• 11 Sep 2017

Batteries have a habit of dying just when you need them the most. Our power-saving tips will help you carry-on shooting for longer. 

A beginners guide to Lightroom

• 5 Sep 2017

Unlike Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom is aimed specifically at photographers and it can help you with every stage of your photographic workflow.

10 Photographers to follow on Instagram

• 1 Sep 2017

Get your daily dose of inspiration by following these great photographers.

Metering Part 2: How to use a handheld light meter

• 22 Aug 2017

In the final part of our series on exposure metering we explain what a handheld light meter is and how you can use one to help you take better images in a variety of situations.

Metering Part 1: How to use your camera's light meter to get off auto mode

• 18 Aug 2017

In part one of our two part series on exposure metering we explain how your camera’s light meter works to enable you to get off Auto mode and start taking the images you want. 

Portfolio Review: 10 photos you can learn from

• 10 Aug 2017

Looking at other peoples’ images is a great way to improve your own photography. Let’s take a look at a varied collection of pictures to see what can be learned.

The Essential Guide to Burst Mode & Continuous Photography | Photography Tips

• 8 Aug 2017

More often than not, when you’re trying to capture moving action within the frame, your photograph can appear blurred. This is common when you’re trying to capture sports in action or a fast-moving object, such as a snowboarder performing a move in mid-air, or a football being kicked during a game.

Spectacular Landscapes with Light & Land Photography

• 7 Aug 2017

If you're interested in an adventurous holiday to some of the worlds most beautiful destinations while learning from an exceptional team of professional photographers then look no futher...

How to get started selling stock photos

• 1 Aug 2017

Selling your photographs via an image library is a great way of making a little extra cash, and may even help you buy that next lens or camera you’re after. Read on to find out how to get started.

A Beginners Guide to Shooting Portraits with Flash

• 20 Jul 2017

Just getting started using flash? Close friend of Clifton Cameras Callum gives us some tips on getting started and shooting portraiture.

High-Speed Sync Explained

• 8 Jul 2017

High-speed sync lets you shoot at faster shutter speeds than is normally possible with flash giving your more creative control. Here’s the science behind the magic.

A Beginners Guide to Autofocus

• 5 Jul 2017

The AF feature is commonly thought of as a simple feature; turn it on, the camera finds focus and then you snap your photo. For first time photographers this can be misleading and doesn't cover the finer points of how to use different modes and how to better set up the feature on your camera for use in different scenarios. Through thorough understanding of AF we can improve our grasp on photography, our cameras and how to use it to create thoughtfully composed images. 

Graduated neutral density filters explained

• 26 Jun 2017

With a little knowhow, a graduated neutral density filter can transform a run-of-the-mill landscape into a masterpiece.

Sensors explained | The megapixel myth

• 16 Jun 2017

The number of megapixels contained within an image does not dictate the quality of the image taken in the frame; rather, it is the size of the image sensor on the camera that dictates the quality of the image taken.

Understanding the Tilt-Shift lens

• 7 Jun 2017

For many photographers, the tilt and shift lens is still a mystery. From a user’s perspective, this type of lens can be intimidating, as moving the angle of the lens changes the focal plane relative to the camera body, which alters the depth of field within the image. 

A simple guide to shooting sport and action

• 23 May 2017

Sport can be a challenging subject but once you start shooting it you’ll realise that it’s seriously addictive. Here’s how to get started.

How to Shoot Motorsports | Panning and Tracking

• 20 May 2017

One of the fundamental techniques in motorsports photography is panning and tracking. In this short video Clifton Cameras' photographer and video production man Ben Wright explains how to capture motion blurr while keeping car and driver in focus.

Image stabilisation explained, in-body and lens

• 19 May 2017

Image stabilisation is designed to enable you to take sharp images at slower shutter speeds than normal. Here’s the lowdown.  

Sensor size explained

• 11 May 2017

Camera sensors come in a range of different sizes, with pros and cons to each. But how do you decide which is right for you?

How to shoot into the sun

• 9 May 2017

Contrary to popular belief - photographing the sun, as well as taking pictures with the sun as a compositional feature, is actually safer than you think.

Fujifilm Continuous Autofocus Custom Settings Explained

• 19 Apr 2017

Fujifilm’s X-T2 and X-T20 have some clever customisation options that can help you get sharp photos of moving subjects: here’s how to use them.

Olympus Live Bulb, Live Time and Live Composite modes explained

• 4 Apr 2017

Olympus Live Bulb, Live Time and Live Composite modes make long exposure photography easier than ever before – here’s what you need to know.

How to Use Film Simulation and Picture Style Modes

• 28 Mar 2017

Film Simulation, Picture Style and Picture Control modes can help you get your photographs looking as you want them in-camera – and here’s how!

Taking Better Sunrise and Sunset Photos

• 24 Mar 2017

Often referred to as the ‘golden hour’, the period following a sunrise or before a sunset is a magical time for photography, where the daylight becomes a redder, softer hue that casts incredible patterns across the sky. 

Shooting modes explained

• 17 Mar 2017

When you look at the mode selection dial on your camera, the choices can seem overwhelming. What do you choose to ensure you capture the best picture? Even if you fully understand the exposure triangle and manual mode, there will be times that the other modes are more useful.

How to use spot metering

• 7 Mar 2017

When used correctly and at the right time, spot metering can help you get perfect exposures, but get it wrong and things can go badly awry. We explain what you need to know.

8 Tips for Capturing Spring

• 2 Mar 2017

Make the most of all the fresh new growth and spring colours with our 9 helpful tips.

Stay connected using Nikon SnapBridge

• 10 Feb 2017

A camera with Wi-Fi connectivity lets you share images quickly, but Nikon’s SnapBridge technology makes it even simpler – here’s why.

Autofocus Modes Explained

• 7 Feb 2017

Understanding your camera’s autofocus system and the various modes available will help you get sharp images. We explain what you need to know.

Painting with Light

• 31 Jan 2017

Winter’s long nights make it the perfect season for painting with light – and digital cameras make it easy enough that anyone can try out this fun technique.

White Balance Explained

• 27 Jan 2017

Your camera’s auto white balance setting has its uses, but there comes a time when you need to move on. We explain all you need to know about this colourful camera setting.

Neutral Density Filter Explained

• 24 Jan 2017

 Neutral density filters are incredibly useful accessories that can transform landscape and seascape images in a way that can’t be replicated in Photoshop. We explain all you need to know about these camera bag essentials.

Essential editing techniques for winter photography

• 19 Jan 2017

With the low-light on offer during winter, every level of photographer has to compensate for their shots with either manual exposure, a tripod or, most importantly, with post-picture editing.

5 tips for photographing frost and snow in 2019

• 6 Jan 2017

Oh the weather outside is frightful… As cold and unwelcoming as winter weather can be, it can also be very photogenic so we’ve put together five tips to help you get the best from it.

Using Polarising Filters

• 5 Dec 2016

Polarising filters are as useful with digital cameras as they are with film photography — and while they are easy to use, it’s not just a case of screwing one onto the end of your lens and hoping for the best.

Memory Card Speeds Explained

• 29 Nov 2016

There’s more to selecting a memory card than just picking one that fits your camera – speed plays an important part too

Using fast shutter speeds with flash

• 22 Nov 2016

Elinchrom’s Hi-Sync (HS) lighting system allows you to use flash at fast shutter speeds, making it perfect for shooting with wide apertures and darkening bright backgrounds.

Mastering the Flash

• 15 Nov 2016

The flash is a tool that can be manipulated and mastered to create a huge range of different outcomes, let us show you how. 

Perfect Winter Sunsets

• 9 Nov 2016

Sunset may come early in the winter time, but it can also be spectacular and well worth photographing if you know how to make the best of all that colour in the sky.

Bokeh Perfection

• 4 Nov 2016

Most photographers pay attention to the focus point of their images, but the out of focus areas can be just as important in creative photography.

Autumn Landscapes: 5 tips for shooting autumn colour

• 28 Oct 2016

Look no further if you’re wondering how to make the most of the fabulous colour on show during autumn: our five tips will put you on the right path.

Illustrated Guide to Composition

• 24 Oct 2016

Once you’ve mastered your camera’s exposure settings and started taking better photographs, you might think you’ve learned everything there is to know about photography. This couldn’t be further from the truth, as one of the most important aspects of any good photo is the composition.

Halloween photography: cast our spell on your photography for truly spooky images

• 21 Oct 2016

For the fearless, Halloween produces some great photographic opportunities – but make sure you carry a wooden stake and a few cloves of garlic to keep the vampires at bay…

The fundamental rules of photography

• 5 Oct 2016

Whether you’re making the step up from a smartphone, or simply want to get to grips with your camera, then one of the fundamental rules of photography is to master the exposure triangle.

The basics of black and white photography

• 4 Oct 2016

There are black and white photographic opportunities everywhere all year round: read on to find out how to get started

Oh I do like to be beside the seaside!

• 26 Sep 2016

In the UK you’re rarely more than a couple of hours drive from the coast and it’s a constant source of inspiration for photographers – so let’s take a look at how to make the most of it.

Instant Print - Why are we still hooked?

• 22 Sep 2016

Instant prints still have a place in our hearts and in photography.

Finding Focus with Night Photography

• 6 Sep 2016

When you’re shooting at night, the low level of light limits the performance of your camera. This tends to result in blur, which makes photos anything from inferior to unusable...

Introduction to Macro Photography

• 2 Sep 2016

Some zoom lenses have the word ‘Macro’ in their name, but invariably they aren’t true macro lenses, they just allow you to focus a bit closer than usual for that type of lens... 

Street Photography

• 11 Aug 2016

Street photography is one of the easiest genres to get into – all you basically need is a working camera – but it’s also one of the hardest to be good at. There’s a world of difference between the great street photographers and the majority of the work being served up online, yet this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give it a go yourself....

Photographing Dogs and Cats

• 28 Jul 2016

We all love a good pet photo, but taking them is not so easy. Here are a few tips to increase the odds in your favour

Shooting better family portraits

• 3 Jun 2016

Family photos are things to be treasured and should be timeless. Discover how to take better family portraits with the latest Clifton Cameras guide...

4K Video for Still Photography

• 1 Jun 2016

Use 4K video capture to your advantage to shoot stills that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.....

Manual Mode & The Exposure Triangle

• 23 May 2016

An explanation of the exposure triangle in order to master manual mode photography. Get out of auto settings and take better shots.....

Essential Guide on how to use manual focus

• 4 May 2016

Sometimes autofocus just isn’t up to scratch. Learn how to free yourself of AF and take better shots with our guide to using manual focus....

How to Edit Images

• 28 Apr 2016

Do your photos justice and edit them to make them the best they can be......

How to shoot Spring flowers

• 11 Apr 2016

With the grey of winter making way for the new growth of spring and along with it a burst of colour across the landscape, it’s easy to see why these months are favourites amongst photographers.....