Send us a text

In this episode of The Wild Photographer, host Court Whelan explores the evolving role of physical filters in the age of digital photography. While many photographers rely heavily on post-processing software like Photoshop and Lightroom, Court argues that there are still certain filters that remain essential for achieving specific effects that digital tools can't replicate. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a photography enthusiast, this episode provides valuable insights into which filters you should consider keeping in your kit.

Court Whelan, a seasoned wildlife, nature, and landscape photographer with over 20 years of experience, hosts The Wild Photographer. Court is passionate about sharing his extensive knowledge of photography gear, techniques, and tips with his audience, helping them capture stunning images across the globe. His expertise is grounded in real-world experience, making his advice practical and valuable for photographers of all levels.

Expect to Learn:

• The historical significance of filters in photography and how digital tools have replaced many traditional filters.
• The essential filters that remain relevant today, including UV, polarizing, and neutral density filters.
• Tips on choosing the right UV and polarizing filters to protect your lens and enhance your photos.
• How to achieve the popular "silky water" effect in bright conditions using neutral density filters.
• Why certain modern filters, like black mist and gold mist filters, are gaining popularity, especially in cinematography.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] - Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout:
  • Court introduces the episode topic and thanks the podcast sponsor, Lens Rentals.
• [00:03:00] - The History of Filters in Photography:
  • A look back at the traditional use of filters and their evolution in the digital age.
• [00:07:20] - The UV Filter: Protecting Your Investment:
  • Court explains the importance of UV filters and how they act as a protective layer for your lenses.
• [00:11:45] - Polarizing Filters: Do You Need One?
  • The benefits of using a polarizing filter, especially for landscape photography, and tips for selecting a high-quality one.
• [00:18:10] - Neutral Density Filters: Essential for Silky Water Effects:
  • Court discusses how neutral density filters allow for long exposure shots in daylight, creating stunning effects with moving water.
• [00:25:30] - Graduated Neutral Density Filters: Are They Still Relevant?
  • An exploration of graduated ND filters and how modern software might replace their use.
• [00:30:40] - Emerging Filters: Black Mist and Gold Mist:
  • A look at the rising trend of black mist and gold mist filters and their applications in photography and videography.
• [00:35:20] - Achieving the Starburst Effect Without Filters:
  • Court shares a pro tip on how to capture the starburst effect using only your camera's settings.
• [00:40:00] - Conclusion and Final Thoughts:
  • A summary of the episode's key points and a reminder to leave a review to support the podcast.

If you'd like to help support the podcast, use these links below if you plan on renting or purchasing a lens! (by the way, you get 15% off at LensRentals.com by using the promo code WildPhotographer15).

My Full Camera Kit:

Send us a text

If you know you know...these are highly revered and often photographers' go-to lenses. But how do they stack up for wildlife, landscape, travel, and general nature photography?

Well, I just returned from a Borneo Photo Expedition and found that I had this on my camera about 80% of the time. Yep, they're that good.

In this episode I go over all the reasons why these are exceptional lenses for nature photography, but also acknowledge some of their downsides.

If you'd like to help support the podcast, use these links below if you plan on renting or purchasing a lens! (by the way, you get 15% off at LensRentals.com by using the promo code WildPhotographer15).

My Full Camera Kit:
Canon R5 Body
Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8
Canon RF 24-105mm f/4
Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1
Canon RF 70-200 f/2.8
Canon EF Macro 100mm f/2.8
Canon RF 50mm f/1.8
Peak Design Carbon Fiber Tripod

Send us a text

Chris is one of the most accomplished and talented photographers in today's day and age, known for everything from extraordinary aerial landscape photography, to surf photography, to epic storytelling in the nature and adventure space. He's authored multiple books, has directed and produced sensational films, and has a business acumen that has made him a household name in the world of outdoor photography.

In this episode we talk about so many things in the photography world, but go deeper into the psyche of photographers with topics like goal-setting and why it's important to "make your own quotes" in the work you produce.

And it goes without saying his advice to photographers (and videographers) at all levels on the storytelling element of photography is par excellence.

You can find more on Chris Burkard at www.ChrisBurkard.com

Want to try out a lens that you've heard about in today's episode? Visit LensRentals.com and use promo code WildPhotographer15 to get 15% off your rental (yes, rentals are an AMAZING way to get better with your photography)

Want to support the show? Leave a great rating and review--it helps more than you know!

My Full Camera Kit:
Canon R5 Body
Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8
Canon RF 24-105mm f/4
Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1
Canon RF 70-200 f/2.8
Canon EF Macro 100mm f/2.8
Canon RF 50mm f/1.8
Peak Design Carbon Fiber Tripod