Photography
Jason O'Flaherty
What are Drop-In Filters?

Curious about drop-in filters and how they fit into high-end lenses like the Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3? When I first encountered them, I found little to no explanation about what they were or how they worked—until I got hands-on. In this article, I break down the mystery behind drop-in filters, show you how they function, and share tips on where to find replacements. Whether you’re a wildlife or astronomy photographer, this guide will help you get the most out of your gear. Click to learn more!

What are Drop-In Filters?
Photography Tutorial
Jason O'Flaherty
11 Secrets to Stunning Zoo Photography

Unlock the secrets to capturing stunning wildlife photos at the zoo. With 11 expert tips, you’ll learn how to transform ordinary zoo snapshots into professional-level portraits. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned photographer, these insights will help you elevate your zoo photography to new heights.

11 Secrets to Stunning Zoo Photography
Product Reviews
Jason O'Flaherty
Ulanzi Cooling Fan

The Ulanzi Cooling Fan is a cost-effective solution for preventing camera overheating, significantly extending recording times for models like the Sony ZV-1 and Fujifilm X-H2. Learn more about its impressive features and why it's a must-have accessory for videographers.

Ulanzi Cooling Fan
Product Reviews
Jason O'Flaherty
Tracking Camera Gear with Apple AirTags

The effectiveness of Apple AirTags in safeguarding camera gear against loss or theft is put to the test. Through real-world experimentation of their functionality, discover how these tags assist in tracking down missing equipment. Finally, the potential security implications of these tags for user privacy are examined.

Tracking Camera Gear with Apple AirTags

Phones

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Pixel 3 Super Res Zoom Test

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For the last 3 years, I’ve had a Google Pixel phone. I started with the first Pixel XL in 2016 after having to return my beloved Note 7 due to the batteries exploding. I haven’t gone back. I got the Pixel 2 XL in 2017 and just recently upgraded to the Pixel 3 XL.

There are several things I love about the Pixels, the fast Android updates and build quality are up there, but what keeps me coming back is the camera and unlimited full quality photo and video uploads to Google Photos.

The camera is amazing despite there only being 1 when everyone else is packing on 2 or 3 now. This year’s model comes with some software improvements that supposedly can’t be ported back to the older Pixels. I’m not sure why. Perhaps it is a speed thing or something new the photo coprocessor.

The main new features are:

  1. Super Res Zoom

  2. Night Sight

  3. Top Shot

  4. Groupie camera

Pixel 3 XL

The Night Sight isn’t out yet. Google will be releasing an update to enable it. It promises to let you take photos in the dark with much less digital noise producing images that don’t need a flash. Top Shot lets you pick a different photo in case you missed the action or someone blinked. Groupie Camera is a 2nd front facing camera with an ultra wide lens to fit more of your background or other people in your selfie shots.

The one we’re looking at today is the Super Res Zoom. Google uses the natural shake of your hand to take multiple pictures and stitch them together to give a sharper digital zoom. The questions is, is it any good? See the video below to find out.