May 2017

Best laptops for Photo Editing

I’ve just updated my guide to some of the , so it is current with the latest models. Not a huge amount has changed since it was last updated 6 months ago, but more models now have Nvidia 10xx (instead of 9xx) GPUs, which is a sizable jump, and now many of them have 7th generation Core CPUs (Kaby Lake). There are also gains in performance, some decreases in size, and ports moving towards newer standards. One important development on the horizon is Nvidia’s new “Max-Q” laptop architecture, which will enable thinner models with discrete GPUs. Those should start showing up in the market by July. Their primary focus is gaming, but as always, gaming laptops can be ideal for image processing.

DJI breaks new ground with $500 Spark flying camera drone

It wasn’t that long ago that DJI amazed everyone by shrinking its Phantom drone platform down to a portable and more-affordable unit, the Mavic Pro. I love my two Mavics, and they are a great place to start if you know you want to get serious about drone photography. . But if you’re a little daunted by the whole process of setting up and flying a drone, or about the $1K price tag, DJI has done it again. It’s new . Or you can get a . DJI & B&H are estimated that shipments will begin in mid-June. You don’t get the 4K video or a few of the other features of the Mavic Pro, but the Spark is even smaller and easier to get flying.

Serious photography fun with DJI Mavic Pro portable drone

I’ve been having a blast with my DJI Mavic Pro drones. They are amazing pieces of technology, and DJI has packed most of the best features of the much-larger Phantom drones into this folding version. I’ll be writing a lot more about using drones for both fun and serious photo and video projects, but if you’re curious about what’s possible, I’ve written up my first experiences and notes in an . When you’re ready to fly, you can pick up a , or get a more .

Images from our South Texas (Rio Grande Valley) photo workshop

We just finished a really fun, and successful, photo workshop in the Rio Grande Valley. Off to our Hill Country workshop next! Some of my personal favorite photos: . Currently we don't have specific plans for when we'll be leading another workshop in the RGV, but if you like what you see and would be interested, message or get in touch through our website. Thanks, as always, to our hosts, Steve Bentsen and the Jackson family.