Shows
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveLenses: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly TruthThey told you the camera body matters most. Wrong. Your lens shapes every image you capture. It's your camera's eye while your sensor just records what gets delivered. Feed it garbage glass, get garbage results. Feed it excellence, magic happens. Today, we're uncovering the good, the bad, and the ugly truth about lenses. Why that expensive f/1.4 disappoints. When kit lenses work. How to invest wisely, not chase specs. Ready to master the glass that transforms snapshots into art?Read it here: https://www.c1macademy.com/lens.html2025-08-0108 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveThe Megapixel Myth: Why More Isn't Always BetterCamera stores love pushing high megapixel counts, but are you getting better images or just bigger headaches? In this episode, we expose the megapixel marketing machine and reveal what really matters when choosing your next camera. Discover why pairing expensive sensors with budget lenses just captures flaws in stunning detail, how smaller pixels create noise problems in low light, and why massive files can kill your creative workflow. We'll share the sweet spot for megapixels, real stories from our Amherst photography classes where modest cameras create stunning work, and why your vision trumps your specs every time. Stop chasing...2025-07-2106 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveMaster the Rules. Then Break Them With Purpose.You want to break photography rules? Good. That rebellious spark drives innovation. But here's the truth: Picasso mastered classical portraiture before he shattered it into cubism. True artistic rebellion isn't blind chaos—it's informed defiance.Every rule in photography exists for a reason. The rule of thirds. Leading lines. Sunny 16. They're not arbitrary restrictions—they're centuries of visual wisdom distilled into guidelines. Before you break them, understand them. Know why they work. Feel their power in your images.Then, and only then, break them intentionally. Ask yourself: Why am I deviating? What new effect does this...2025-07-2107 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveThe Symphony of PhotographyWhat camera should I buy? If you've been in photography for more than five minutes, you've either asked this question or been asked it. But here's what's really happening. It's like asking which piano will make you a virtuoso composer. The magic isn't in the gear. It's in the vision you bring to your art. The way you interpret light, compose stories, and create images that could only come from you. Today we're diving deep into the artist's journey in photography. How you move from playing the notes to composing your own symphony. How you transform from someone who...2025-07-1211 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveThe strap that changed everything Your camera gear is an investment worth protecting. But most photographers overlook the humble camera strap – until it fails.In this episode, we explore why cheap straps with plastic clips are disasters waiting to happen, and what separates premium options from the rest. You'll discover Peak Design's dual-surface engineering that grips for stability and slides for speed, plus their braided attachment system with built-in wear indicators.Ready to protect your investment and elevate your shooting?Read it here: https://www.c1macademy.com/strap.html2025-07-0409 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveFinding Your Horizon: Where Land Meets StoryYou frame the shot. But where do you place that critical line where earth meets sky?This episode reveals why horizon placement makes or breaks your landscape images. Discover the emotional power of low horizons that showcase dramatic skies. Learn when high horizons spotlight stunning foregrounds. And understand the rare moments when centered horizons create perfect symmetry.From African plains to New England maples, we'll explore real examples that show how one compositional choice transforms a simple photograph into compelling visual storytelling.Your horizon line guides every viewer's eye. Time to make it...2025-06-2608 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveAuto ISO and Its Limits: When Smart Shortcuts Hit the WallReady to ditch auto mode but feeling overwhelmed? We get it. This week, discover the game-changing approach that puts you in control without the complexity. Learn why starting with shutter at 1/500, aperture at f/8, and auto ISO isn't cheating—it's smart. We'll show you how to master two settings first, then level up to full manual mastery. Plus, what to do when bright days blow out your shots.Stop letting your camera make the creative decisions. Your vision deserves better.Read it here: https://www.c1macademy.com/autoiso.html2025-06-2607 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveSpots in Your Shots? Here's What NOT to DoThat sinking feeling when mysterious spots appear in your images? We've all been there. This week, we break down the right (and very wrong) ways to handle dirt inside your camera or lens. Spoiler: Put down the Q-tip. Learn the gentle rocket puffer technique that actually works, why your breath is your camera's enemy, and when it's time to call in the pros. Your investment deserves better than DIY disasters.Perfect for photographers who want to protect their gear and keep creating stunning work.Read it here: https://www.c1macademy.com/clean.html2025-06-1909 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DivePhoto Editing and Why You Want ToEver wondered if photo editing is worth the effort, or where to even begin? We say an emphatic YES! In this episode, discover why editing is crucial for bringing your images to life and how it can elevate a good photo to a great one. We'll break down all of C1M's photo editing resources – including our Lightroom series, intensive workshops, and comprehensive Photo Editing 1-3 courses – so you can confidently choose the right learning adventure for you.Read it here: https://www.c1macademy.com/editing.html2025-06-0512 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveLet's get squinting!Welcome to Photo Ninja Deep Dive, the podcast that helps you snap better photos, one click at a time! Today, we're diving into a super simple, yet incredibly effective trick that can drastically improve your photography, especially if you're just starting out. It's a technique that's literally right under your nose, or rather, in your eyes! We're talking about the power of the squint.In an article titled "Always Take Your Squint With You," we explore why our amazing eyes, which adapt effortlessly to all sorts of light, can sometimes lead us astray when we're holding a...2025-05-3108 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveBokehThis introduction to bokeh from C1M Photography delves into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of compelling photographic composition: the artistic quality of out-of-focus areas. While sharpness is frequently prioritized, this blog post emphasizes how the aesthetic quality of soft, rounded highlights in blurred backgrounds, distinct from general blur, significantly contributes to an image's impact. The article goes on to explain techniques for achieving bokeh and notes the influence of lens and aperture shape on its appearance, ultimately highlighting the company's photography classes.Read it here: https://www.c1macademy.com/bokeh.html2025-05-2306 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveUnlock Your Photography Potential: Free Resources & Community!Are you looking to elevate your photography skills? In this episode, we dive into an incredible resource that offers a wealth of opportunities for both beginners and experienced photographers alike. We'll explore how you can access professional techniques, hands-on learning, ongoing advice, and a vibrant community – all designed to help you capture stunning images.Key Takeaways:12 Free Online Lessons: Discover professional photography techniques taught in a series of comprehensive, no-cost online lessons. Learn the secrets pros use to create captivating photos.Free In-Person Intro Class: Get hands-on with your digital camera! Find out ho...2025-05-2204 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveThe Middle - ReloadedBreaking the Third Degree: When Symmetry Steals the Center StageWe've all heard it, haven't we? That for compelling compositions, your subject should rarely reside in the dead center of your frame. The revered rule of thirds, a cornerstone of visual storytelling, guides us to place key elements along those imaginary lines and at their intersections – the so-called "power points." (If you're new to this concept, or need a refresher, make sure to check out our previous post on mastering the rule of thirds – consider it your essential groundwork before venturing further!)By now, whether thro...2025-05-2107 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveDigital Camera Class - Saturday 10 to noonTake Control of Your Camera: Your Journey Begins with Fundamental SettingsStepping into the world of digital photography can be exhilarating, but those initial camera settings might feel like a foreign language. If you're ready to move beyond guesswork and gain a solid understanding of how your camera truly works, you've come to the right place. This outline from C1M Academy introduces the essential building blocks for photographic confidence, the very foundation covered in our comprehensive Photography 1 course.We believe that mastering your camera starts with understanding a few key principles. We'll guide you...2025-05-2011 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveIs Your Camera Feeling Neglected? Inject Some Joy with the 52 Weeks, 52 Wonders Photo Challenge!Does your trusty camera seem a little down in the dumps lately? Perhaps it's been gathering dust while life's demands take center stage? If you're nodding along, we have just the remedy: the 52 Weeks, 52 Wonders photo challenge! Intrigued? Then keep reading – this might be exactly the spark your photographic passion needs.One piece of advice we consistently share with aspiring photographers seeking improvement is simple yet profound: practice, practice, practice. Our courses are designed to equip you with a solid foundation, empowering you to continue your photographic journey beyond the classroom. But to truly flourish, those skills ne...2025-05-1908 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveDitch the Dead Center: Transform Your Photos by Embracing the Rule of Thirds (and Beyond)When starting out in photography, it's natural to place your subject smack-dab in the middle of the frame. After all, that's where the camera often points us. But here's a secret that can instantly elevate your images: not everything needs to be in the middle. In fact, positioning your subject off-center often leads to more compelling and visually engaging photographs. Think about giving your subject some breathing room on one side – it can dramatically change how the viewer experiences the image, especially when that subject implies movement or direction.Don't just take my word for it. Try a...2025-05-1809 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveElevate Your Vision: Discover the Artistry of Composition for PhotographyYou've mastered the basics, you understand your camera, and now you're ready to move beyond the technical and truly unlock your artistic voice behind the lens. Welcome to the Intermediate Photography course offered by C1M Academy, where we delve into the captivating world of visual design and masterful composition.This eight-class curriculum goes beyond the nuts and bolts of your camera, focusing on the elements that transform a good photograph into a compelling work of art. We'll explore fundamental visual design principles, illuminate the nuances of effective lighting techniques, and delve into specific photography genres like...2025-05-1709 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveTry this ...Alright, listen up, shutterbug! Got a single minute to unlock a little photographic magic right now? Excellent! Dust off that trusty camera of yours and head outdoors – the world is waiting for your unique perspective. Now, let's dive straight into the good stuff. Flick that mode dial over to 'M' for Manual – that's where the real creative control begins.Since you're soaking up the natural light, let's tell your camera to do the same. Set your white balance to 'Cloudy' – this will help bring out the richness in those outdoor tones. Next up, let's nail down your shutte...2025-05-1705 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveThe Photographer's Core Four: Mastering Shutter Speed, Aperture, White Balance, and ISOEvery time you press the shutter button, a delicate dance of four key settings unfolds within your camera, working in harmony to create the image you capture. Understanding and controlling shutter speed, aperture, white balance, and ISO is fundamental to moving beyond automatic modes and crafting truly compelling photographs. These four elements are the pillars of exposure and the foundation upon which creative photographic choices are built. Let's take a quick peek at each:Shutter Speed: Often the culprit behind blurry photos, shutter speed dictates how long your camera's sensor is exposed to light. Too slow, and...2025-05-1707 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveUnlock Your Camera's Potential: Discover the Power of Photography 1!Tired of shooting in auto and feeling like you're not truly in control of your camera? Ready to move beyond snapshots and create the images you envision? Then step into the world of Photography 1 (Know Your Camera), a popular and empowering six-week course offered by the LoginC1M Photography Academy!Whether you prefer the immersive experience of in-person learning at our Amherst, NH location or the convenience of joining us online via Zoom, this $599 course is your key to demystifying your digital camera. We'll delve into the essential functions – shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and the art of co...2025-05-1712 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveBeyond the Hype: Why You Might Not Need That UV Filter for Your Digital CameraSo, you've invested in a fantastic camera, and the world of accessories beckons. Or perhaps a helpful salesperson has already started listing all the "essential" add-ons. Sorting through the must-haves and the nice-to-haves can be tricky. Today, let's tackle one accessory that, in my opinion, often falls squarely into the "skip it" category for most digital photographers: the UV filter.The very name suggests its purpose: to block ultraviolet (UV) light from reaching your camera's sensor. UV light is high-energy and invisible to the human eye. Back in the days of film photography, however, film was highly...2025-05-1707 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveShedding Light on Flash: Beyond the Harsh PopIf you've been following our exploration of light in photography (and if not, be sure to check out our post "On Light"!), you know that understanding the quantity of light available is fundamental. Photographing in low-light situations presents unique challenges, often pushing the limits of our equipment and skills. This naturally leads us to the topic of flash photography. While the concept isn't new – imagine photographers of the 1800s igniting volatile chemicals for a burst of illumination! – thankfully, the technology has evolved significantly.However, even with modern advancements, not all flash produces aesthetically pleasing results. In my expe...2025-05-1707 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveLearn more about digital photography - start here Curious about digital photography? Want to learn the basics of your camera and pick up some handy tips? C1M Photography Academy is offering a free introductory class to get you started! Join us in person in Amherst, NH, on a Saturday at 10 am for this valuable session, where you can also ask questions. While the class is free, you can secure your spot by reserving a seat for $20 – a smart move, as this introductory session may not remain free forever. Plus, registering now gets you instant access to a class book. Keep an eye on your inbox (and ma...2025-05-1608 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveUnlock Your Vision: A Guide to Choosing the Right Lens for Your DSLRSo, you've got your DSLR, and you're ready to take your photography to the next level. But have you considered the crucial role your lens plays in shaping your creative vision? Here at C1M Photography, we know that choosing the right lens can be a game-changer, opening up new possibilities and dramatically impacting the look and feel of your images.One of the primary distinctions between lenses lies in their focal length, a seemingly simple number that dictates the field of view and how subjects appear in your photographs. Understanding these different focal length ranges is...2025-05-1607 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveTaking Control with Auto Exposure CompensationYour camera's automatic exposure system is a clever piece of technology, constantly working to deliver a well-balanced image straight out of the camera. For many everyday shots, it performs admirably. However, the camera's "ideal" exposure isn't always your ideal exposure, especially when faced with challenging lighting scenarios. Think of photographing a pristine blanket of white snow or a vast expanse of bright sand – in these situations, your camera's meter might be fooled, resulting in a dull, gray rendition instead of the vibrant brightness you intended.This is where the power of Auto Exposure Compensation (AEC) comes into pl...2025-05-1606 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveIgnite Your Passion: Explore and Create with the C1M Academy Photo Explorers!Are you a photography enthusiast eager to get out there, capture stunning images, and hone your editing skills alongside fellow creatives? Look no further than the C1M Academy Photo Explorers! This vibrant group offers monthly on-location photo shoots in the picturesque landscapes of Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts, followed by insightful editing sessions to bring your captured moments to life.Immerse yourself in a relaxed, hands-on environment where you'll learn practical techniques for mastering filters, understanding light, and perfecting your composition. We believe in learning by doing, exploring diverse locations each month to provide you...2025-05-1607 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveNavigating the Camera Maze: Finding the Right Fit for Your Photographic Journey"What camera should I buy?" If I had a nickel for every time I've heard that question, well, let's just say I'd have a pretty impressive camera collection! It's a question that resonates with anyone stepping into the world of photography, and understandably so. The sheer volume of options and the chorus of opinions can feel overwhelming.When the topic of cameras arises, the giants of the industry – Sony, Nikon, and Canon – inevitably come to mind. Each offers a range of high-quality cameras packed with features. So, how do you even begin to choose? Having worked with all...2025-05-1603 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveTaming the Light: Mastering Auto Exposure Lock for Stunning ResultsYour camera's built-in light meter is a marvel of modern technology, automatically striving to achieve a balanced exposure in every shot. And most of the time, it does a fantastic job. But what happens when its "wisdom" doesn't quite align with your artistic vision?Imagine capturing a classic New England scene: a weathered rock wall snaking through a sun-drenched field. Your camera, sensing the bright expanse of the sky, might automatically adjust the exposure to compensate, leaving your foreground – the very subject you want to highlight – underexposed and appearing as a silhouette. If dramatic silhouettes are your aim...2025-05-1604 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveYellowstone - a photographers dreamCapture the Majesty: 5-Day Yellowstone & Grand Teton Photography TripImagine: Five days photographing the stunning landscapes, iconic geothermal features, and incredible wildlife of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.Our mission: To get you to the right spots at the right time to capture breathtaking images, from sunrise on the Tetons to dawn mists over Yellowstone's geysers.Experience:Dramatic Landscapes: Photograph the Teton Range reflecting in pristine lakes and explore Yellowstone's vast valleys and rivers.Iconic Geothermal Wonders: Capture the colors of Grand Prismatic, the power of Old Faithful, and the formations...2025-05-1610 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveThe Lens HoodTired of unwanted glare and washed-out photos? This article makes a strong case for the unsung hero of photography: the lens hood. More than just a piece of plastic, discover why consistent use of the correct lens hood is essential for masterful light management and preventing those frustrating image imperfections. Beyond light control, we'll explore its crucial role in safeguarding your valuable lens. Plus, we'll share practical advice on choosing the right hood and a handy storage tip.Read the post here: https://www.c1macademy.com/lens-hoods.html2025-05-1609 min
Photo Ninjas Deep DiveOn LightUnlock the power of light in your photography! This guide from C1M Photography delves into the four fundamental properties that shape every image you capture: quantity, quality, direction, and color. While each plays a role, discover why understanding light quality – its softness or hardness – is paramount for setting the artistic tone and mood of your photographs. Learn practical tips, like seeking soft shade for flattering portraits and recognizing impactful lighting directions. Ready to master the art of light? Explore the world of C1M Photography courses to illuminate your photographic journey.Read the blog post here: http...2025-05-1609 min