Glenn Ruga, Photographer, Graphic Designer, Activist & Founder, SocialDocumentary.net joins Host Scott Sheppard to explain his background and passion for using photography to promote global awareness of issues. Finding a lack of a centralized location where people could go
to find this type of work, Glenn decided to create a website which allows photographers to showcase their image journals and provide a platform where students, researchers, or reporters can go to see these photos.

Glenn explains that photographers often participate in these critical issues either while on assignment or simply because they are passionate about the cause and topic as seen in this photograph by, Daro Sulakuri. Glenn discusses the types of exhibitions included on SocialDocumentary.net many of which are short collections done by both amateur and professional photographers. Although many social documentary photographers have and maintain their own websites, Glenn encourages them to post a few images of their story with description and links to help increase awareness of their work and their chosen issues.

Glenn and Scott also discuss some tips on how to begin creating a photo-documentary journal and details on how to submit images to the site, submitting exhibits are free but there is a small annual fee to maintain your story. Glenn emphasizes it’s important to build a relationship with their subjects and consider the background and overall story behind the images they want to capture demonstrated in this image by Deb Marcano.

To find out more, or submit your own work visit: http://socialdocumentary.net/ Glenn also runs a design firm dedicated to helping non-profit organizations, visit: http://www.vizcom.com/

The McNamara Report on Inside Digital Photo with Michael J. McNamara
This week’s topic: Panasonic dives in deep with its latest cameras

On January 27, 2009 Panasonic invited a horde of Who’s Who journalists from the US and Europe to Miami to show off its newest compact cameras. The weather was great and the beach was hot, but some of us wound up tossing our cameras into the ocean…Find out what drove us to that extreme in this segment of the McNamara Report.

Listen in on the McNamara Report segment or get more photo insights and analysis on a variety of topics from Mike McNamara at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com.

Derrick Story, Writer, Teacher, Photographer, and Host of The Digital Story Podcast joins Scott Sheppard for some insight, tips, and discussion about geotagging your photos. Derrick has done extensive testing on geo-tagging and shares ideas on how you can add this key metadata to your images even if your camera does not have this feature built-in.

Derrick explains how you can use an accessory such as JOBO photoGPS - if you don’t shoot Nikon - which mounts onto your camera’s hot-shoe and capture the geo-data of each picture by the click of your camera. Once you capture the data you can take advantage of location specific features built into applications such as iPhoto ‘09 or Ubermind’s Maperture plug-in for Aperture to map your photos by location.

Derrick also notes that many people do not realize that using their iPhone to take photos automatically includes geo-data, and recommends Mac users check out Houdah’s HoudahGeo utility to pin photos to locations.

For compact cameras you can use Eye-Fi’s Explore Wi-Fi enabled SD memory cards to record location information upon capture and easily share those photos online while you are on-the-go.

For more articles from Derrick on geo-tagging visit: http://www.thedigitalstory.com or find him on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/derrick_story

The McNamara Report on Inside Digital Photo with Michael J. McNamara
This week’s topic: Pico Boo! What were they thinking?

Palm-sized “Pico” projectors with battery-powered LED lights are the latest tech rage, and allow you to show movies or pictures just about anywhere. But can you use them to impress potential clients? Don’t even try! Find out why and learn about better alternatives in this segment of the McNamara Report.

Listen in on the McNamara Report segment or get more photo insights and analysis on a variety of topics from Mike McNamara at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com.

Yvette Roman, Wedding & Portrait Photographer joins host Scott Sheppard for some insight and perspective on the impact of VPS LLC’s recent patent suit against Pictage on her photography business and what this action means to professional photographers selling their work online. Yvette, a longtime Pictage client, received a notice from Pictage raising their fees effectively immediately. Yvette uses Pictage’s services for online proofing and remote print sales and fulfillment. Yvette explains the benefits of working with Pictage, including the ability to store and access her archives off-site providing her instant access to her high-resolution images.

VPS LLC., in their suit, also went after some individual photography studios. Rather than panic, Yvette did extensive research to find out the details of the patent and shares her findings. She explains that Pictage’s services involve an online conversion and replacement of high-resolution and low-resolution images handled on their server which was the root of VPS’s patent and their suit costing Pictage millions in unpaid royalty fees which they passed onto their clients. The suit has since settled and Pictage’s new fee structure is in place.

Yvette also researched some other lab options including services offered by DigiLabs and RedCart which are not effected by VPS’ patented technologies. She advises other photographers to look into these services carefully, and encourages them to ask whether their business model is affected by VPS royalties or patents.

Yvette also explains some details about her work. She primarily shoots on film and then scans her original work for digital finishing, in a hybrid workflow. She feels her traditional approach has helped her carve out a niche in her local wedding market and shares some anecdotes to consider.

Find out more about Yvette’s work at: http://www.yrphoto.com

The McNamara Report on Inside Digital Photo with Michael J. McNamara
This week’s topic: Sony’s latest HD Mega-Camcorder: Is it a DSLR replacement?

At CES 2009 Sony introduced a new HD camcorder that’s bound to catch the attention of still photographers. On the one hand, the HandyCam HDR-XR520V (@1500 street) does all the things you’d expect from a decent Sony HD camcorder, like capture hours and hours of high quality 1080i HD video to its 240GB hard drive, plus reveal detail in low light with the help of its new sensor and bright 15X optical-stabilized lens. On the other hand, it crosses the line into high res still photography by capturing 6MP still photos (Sony claims 12MP still capture, but that’s after interpolation) to a Memory Stick Pro DUO. Plus, it has a built-in GPS receiver for geotagging location information to both still photos and movies. Learn more about this camcorder and why it might bring more than a smile to serious photographers in this segment of the McNamara Report.

Listen in on the McNamara Report segment or get more photo insights and analysis on a variety of topics from Mike McNamara at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com.

Sean Arbabi, Commercial Photographer joins host Scott Sheppard to share his background in commercial/editorial work and experiences in developing a successful stock photography business. He is also an author and instructor who hosts both online classes and workshops. Sean explains that although he specializes in adventure, lifestyle, nature, and travel photography his assignments have also expanded his portfolio to include over 350,000 stock images. Sean feels that although the stock industry has changed over the past few years but is still a viable outlet, albeit more diluted, to generate revenue. Sean reminds us that in the end it’s not always about being the best photographer but rather about being the smartest business person behind your work.

Sean recently completed his first book published by AmPhoto, "The BetterPhoto Guide to Exposure" which he wrote based on his popular courses available at http://www.betterphoto.com and helps you master the art of proper exposure. Sean is as passionate about teaching others as he is about being a successful photographer and shares some tips on metering light. In addition to being a great photographer and instructor, Sean’s passion for teaching has also led him to create a concept and pilot for an informative TV/Video series "The PhotoGuru with Sean Arbabi", which is also available on YouTube.

Find information about his work, books, workshops, videos, and more at: http://www.seanarbabi.com.

The McNamara Report on Inside Digital Photo with Michael J. McNamara
This week’s topic: McNamara on Memory Cards

This week, Mike debunks some common myths about today’s latest and greatest and largest memory cards. Find out what to look for, the capabilities, and what to expect when shooting digital using various configurations. Are there limitations? absolutely. Understand the truth behind the marketing hype surrounding the latest format speed and sizes.

Listen in on the McNamara Report segment or get more photo insights and analysis on a variety of topics from Mike McNamara at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com.

Jared Henderson, Owner/Founder, NetRivet joins host Scott Sheppard to discuss details on how to upgrade your photo site and blog using "Prophoto" Wordpress theme for professional photographers. Jared explains how to take your existing Wordpress blog and turn it into a spectacular showcase for your photo business.

Designed to work as a "plug-in" as well as a theme, Jared explains how his theme enables over 700 customizable features making it easy to update and edit without ever touching a line of code. One of the key features is an integrated Flash photo gallery player for the header that adds dynamic images instantly. Jared’s template truly takes the guesswork out of creating a great site. Prophoto has implemented not only great design, but also incorporated many best practices - including SEO - making it an ideal turnkey solution.

Jared also discusses some tips about how your site and / or blog can help photographers build their brand not just showcase their work. Standard flash-based portfolio sites are a good starting point, but much of any professional’s business depends on personal relationships and building a relationship with your clients. Transforming your portfolio site into an interactive blog is a great way to share your ideas and even find new clients leveraging a Wordpress blog’s inherent social networking and viral content tools.

For pricing and more information on Prophoto visit: http://www.prophotoblogs.com/ If you decide to purchase, receive $10 off by using the code "prophoto159" on checkout.

The McNamara Report on Inside Digital Photo with Michael J. McNamara
This week’s topic: Live from CES 2009

This week, Mike joins us live from the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, NV for an update on the new consumer and pro photo products being showcased at the event.

Listen in on the McNamara Report segment or get more photo insights and analysis on a variety of topics from Mike McNamara at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com.

Cliff Mautner, Wedding Photographer, and Nikon Legend Behind the Lens joins host Scott Sheppard to share tips and anecdotes of his 27 years as a professional photographer, transition into his new Haddonfield studio, and some details of his upcoming events and training classes. Cliff talks about recently completing an exciting project for "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" along with fellow photographer Susan Stripling which will be airing soon on ABC.

Cliff has instructed various seminars and workshops the past few years and recently announced the dates for his Spring ‘09 sessions - Lighting and Skillset Bootcamp. - April 21-23, 2009 held in his Haddonfield, NJ studio. He will also be hosting many sessions at the upcoming WPPI Wedding & Portrait Photographers International, where he is also judging the print competition and participating in the "Plus" conferences.

Cliff and Scott discuss the latest Nikon news and more importantly shares his vision and passion for his work. Cliff explains how important the comaraderie aspect is among his students and fellow wedding photographers.

To stay up to date on Cliff’s latest visit his website at: http://www.cmphotography.com and his blog at: http://cliffmautner.typepad.com/

The McNamara Report on Inside Digital Photo with Michael J. McNamara
This week’s topic: Editorial Photos - Fact? Fiction? or Fantasy?

Mike joins us in celebrating the 3 year anniversay of the "McNamara Report" Blog first on Popphoto.com and now available at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com. Mike and Scott discuss some key issues in editorial and journalistic photography today. Most photographers rely on the wonders of Photoshop to edit their images so they are aesthetically pleasing, but at what point does editing a photograph change the overall story or instance. If we accept that lines of reality or truth in imagery are crossed daily, how do we judge where that line is drawn. Mike explores examples in a range of photo genres.

Listen in on the McNamara Report segment or get more photo insights and analysis on a variety of topics from Mike McNamara at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com

Jeff Karp, Product Marketing Manager, Mamiya joins host Scott Sheppard for an update on the Mamiya DL 28 and other medium format digital topics. Jeff shares details of their most affordable medium format digital package priced around $15,000. Jeff explains that the Mamiya DL28 Professional Digital Camera System consists of the new Mamiya 645AFD III Medium Format Camera, new Sekor AF 80mm f/2.8 D digital lens and the newly introduced Leaf Aptus-II 6 28 Megapixel Digital Back. Jeff explains the features included in this package as priced and the overall savings.

Jeff and Scott also review the benefits of medium format vs. standard DSLR systems including image capture capabilities, tonal range, and by changing the camera back has the flexibility to shoot film or digital. He also explains that some of the speed issues in medium format have been addressed. The size of the images captured have an inherent 3D feel to them that completely differentiates it from any other camera system. He discusses which type of photographers would benefit from considering medium format including fashion, commercial, nature/landscape, and even some formal wedding portrait work.

Jeff also describes some studio workflow tips using the Leaf Aptus II Digital Back and your system.

For more information about the DL28 and Mamiya’s other products visit: http://www.mamiya.com to find a digital camera dealer near you.

The McNamara Report on Inside Digital Photo with Michael J. McNamara
This week’s topic: New Years Resolutions and Pre-CES coverage

Mike shares a view from his crystal ball for an update on the best photo gear we can expect to see in 2009. Mike discusses key products that will make an impact including storage solutions, the megapixel wars will continue, Panasonic/Sanyo merge will prove to be the largest electronics producer in the world, image stabilization moving from lens to the camera body, and other highlights. Mike also shares some developments from Kodak and a Swiss Army Knife appearing at CES. More CES coverage will follow in the new year!

Listen in on the McNamara Report segment or get more photo insights and analysis on a variety of topics from Mike McNamara at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com

Rick Sammon, Author, Travel Photographer, Instructor joins host Scott Sheppard to give us an update from his recent trip to Antartica where he went to photograph Emperor Penguins and share highlights from his new book titles. Rick released three books this year which include; Face to Face: Rick Sammon’s Complete Guide to Photographing People, Rick Sammon’s Exploring the Light: Making the Very Best In-Camera Exposures, and Rick Sammon’s Digital Photography Secrets. One of his favorite things to photograph are people and when doing so Rick finds ways to bond with the local culture and people by performing magic tricks. Rick explains that breaking the ice in this manner can bring him closer to his subjects.

Rick also gives us a peek at his favorite gear which include a Canon 5D Mark II and discusses how he is now learning to expand his portfolio by incorporating video features using the capabilities of this new camera. Rick is a Canon Explorer of Light and has several informative clips available online. He is also working closely with the National Association of Photoshop creating training titles for Kelby Training, and has a series of DVD training on the Canon EOS Rebel line. He also posts many tips and insights on his YouTube channel.

For more information about Rick’s work visit: http://www.ricksammon.com.

The McNamara Report on Inside Digital Photo with Michael J. McNamara
This week’s topic: Last minute holiday gifts for your favorite photographers.

Mike reviews some great gifts and gear for this holiday season. From the stylish White Pentax K2000 ideal 10.1MP DSLR camera, the Iomega 250GB eGo Black Belt Portable Hard Drive, the Olympus Stylus or the Leica Digilux 4 Titanium, and the eStarling Impact 8" wireless Picture frame. For some great stocking stuffer ideas try a 32GB Kingston SDHC card, some Nik software or Apple Aperture.

Listen in on the McNamara Report segment or get more photo insights and analysis on a variety of topics from Mike McNamara at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com.

Steven Frischling, Photographer & Travel Strategist, FishFoto Worldwide, returns to Inside Digital Photo for a lively discussion with host Scott Sheppard about destination photography and holiday travel. Steven is most known for his blog "Flying with Fish" which is full of tips based on his first-hand experiences logging thousands of miles regularly as a photojournalist, corporate, and commercial photographer with offices and clients based in JFK-SFO-LHR-HKG. Steven gives some tips on how to save money traveling during the holidays, an overall update on changing travel rules and regulations, and most importantly how to pack and travel safely with your gear.Steven points out that many airlines have changed their carry-on allowances that can impact the size of your photo gear bag, and of course how much you can now carry with you. Don’t assume just because you traveled with a bag to your destination, that you will be able to easily return with it, many international airports are much stricter about weighing the items on check-in and may charge fees.

Steven also points out that the type of clothing you pack for your trip can help you manage your carry-on and other weight.For example, he owns a travel vest/jacket with many pockets and has had to move items out of his bag and carry on lenses, flashes, etc. on his body through security since there are less restrictions on what you can wear on your body.Steven suggests checking out the L.L. Bean collection as not only are they sturdy and travel ready but they also offer replacement guarantees which can save money in the long run. Currently his favorite gear bag is Andy Bigg’s new Gura Gear bag we discussed last week, and he shares some other bags which have withstood his road tests. Suggestions perfect for holiday gifts for your favorite traveling photographer.

For more information about Steven Frischling visit his website at: http://www.fishfotoworldwide.com/, his blog at: http://www.flyingwithfish.com, his corporate travel consulting site: http://www.thetravelstrategist.com/. If you want to experience his travel photo boot camps check out: http://www.comeflywithfish.com/

The McNamara Report on Inside Digital Photo with Michael J. McNamara
This week’s topic: Sony Cameras for Pro Photographers?

This week Mike breaks through the myths around whether Sony cameras are viable tools for professional photographers. Learn about their development efforts in this space, along with some history of their partnerships and R&D since the early 1980’s when they were behind the digital still video movement.

Mike explains that Sony is now offering several options for the pro photographer including the Sony α (alpha) DSLR-A700, and explains some of the features and capabilities available at an attractive pricepoint. Mike also discusses their annual world photography awards accepting submissions through the end of this year. Find out more at: http://www.worldphotographyawards.org

Listen in on the McNamara Report segment or get more photo insights and analysis on a variety of topics from Mike McNamara at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com.

Will Hauser, Freelance Photographer & Owner of Snapshots, a prosumer photography retail shop joins host Scott Sheppard for a lively discussion about his work and some trends he’s experiencing . Snapshots was founded by his father, and since a young boy Will had access to some of the best camera equipment and became an avid photographer. Growing up learning about photography,Will now shoots most of his work digitally but maintains a full service print lab in his shop.

In addition to running the retail operations, Will’s passion is photography and sports and has been successfully able to build a freelance photo business working closely with clients including NY Giants and Jets NFL teams. He’s shot several key events including the Super Bowl, the Pro Bowl, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame induction ceremonies.Will discusses his long road to maintaining contacts in the sports media field and how he is able to gain work and access to professional sports venues and sell images he’s captured at the events.He explains that being an avid fan gives him an advantage when shooting games as he’s able to capture the emotion of the athletes during critical game points. In addition to sports, Will’s assignments also include corporate and family events, landscape and wildlife as well as environmental portraiture.

Will describes his workflow and preferred gear as well as sharing his thoughts about the current trends in prosumer retail. He’s experienced the prosumer transition from film to digital first hand and sees that more and more average consumers are opting to do-it-yourself rather than hire a professional on both the capture and output side of the business. Consumers are told by media that capturing professional images is as easy as point and shoot. He often advises his clients, to take advantage of their local school photographer’s images rather than compromise their memories by attempting to shoot the pictures themselves.

For more information on Will’s work, visit his portfolio site at: http://www.williamhauser.com/

The McNamara Report on Inside Digital Photo with Michael J. McNamara
This week’s topic: Don’t believe the rumors, the Nikon D3X is REALLY here!

From the minute Nikon released the pro, full-frame D3 in August of 2007, the rumors began flying about the Nikon D3X. That’s not surprising, considering that Nikon followed its older D2 and D1 with x versions. But while those cameras provided incremental advances over their x-less models, and cost about the same, the new D3x costs $3000 more than the D3. Is it really worth that much for the extra detail and other features it offers?
In this segment, Mike takes a close look at the D3x’s new features, potential image quality, and its appeal to Nikon professional photographers ready to shoot down Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III and Sony A900 owners, as well as the medium format digital crowd.

Listen in on the McNamara Report segment or get more photo insights and analysis on a variety of topics from Mike McNamara at: http://www.mcnamarareport.com