Category: Photography
September 27, 2026 / / Journal

Lightroom. Again.

I know what you are thinking, and you’re right. I’ve oscillated on using Adobe for years. Back and forth On/Off. Shut up.

For years, I kept trying to get away from Adobe. The subscription annoyed me. Creative Cloud annoyed me. Lightroom felt bloated, and I kept looking for smaller, simpler tools that would let me concentrate on photography instead of managing software.

So I wandered. I tried other workflows, leaned heavily into mobile photography and convinced myself I really didn’t need Adobe anymore. And now, somewhat annoyingly, I’m finding Adobe again.

Lightroom has quietly become useful to me in ways I’d forgotten. I have decades of photographs (64K and rising!) to organize, rediscover and actually do something with. Search, metadata, cataloging and editing all living in the same ecosystem suddenly makes considerably more sense than my collection of clever little workarounds. Turns out I needed those tools.

So after years of trying to give Adobe the finger, I appear to be slowly lowering it.
September 7, 2026 / / Photography

Two New Cases

While strolling around various towns this Labor Day weekend I was thinking I needed a better setup for the iPhone. After research I came across a master grip system that attaches to the phone using MagSafe attachments. The system comes with a phone case, master grip with shutter button, zoom in/out and a function button to switch from photo to video. Another magnet on the front allows for the ring lamp and mirror for better portraits.

Images taken with the new Leica, which I am still sorting out the focusing capabilities.

Because Amazon won’t leave you alone, they threw in another suggestion: a dive case for my iPhone. Well, as one who loves the water be it chlorinated or salted, I thought this was a good idea. How many times could I have used this in the past and didn’t have it?

Rated for a depth of 65′ which is perfect because anything lower, I am not snorkeling, I’ll be diving with an aqualung.

I also grabbed a MagSafe battery pack for the iPhone, an SD to USB-C reader to connect the Leica’s memory card to the iPhone, and a tech bag to organize all of this new gear.

The Photo Denbow mobile studio will be ready for the next weekend trip.

August 31, 2026 / / Journal

The Leica D-Lux

After twenty five years, I can finally say I am the proud owner of a Leica Camera.

To be clear, I did not drop the retail price of $2000 on a newer version of my current model. I don’t have that kind of scratch.

For the past few weeks, I’ve been looking for a dedicated compact camera. I considered the usual suspects: an old Sony Cyber-shot, a Canon PowerShot, maybe something small enough to slip into a pocket without thinking twice. I wasn’t chasing the latest technology and I wanted something that made photography feel fun again. Then I stumbled across this online.

Released in 2006, the D-Lux 3 is ancient by digital camera standards. It has a 10-megapixel CCD sensor, a simple interface, and just enough manual control 1to stay out of my way. It shoots both JPG and RAW. Most digicams never offered that. That’s exactly why I bought it. Well, to be fair, the manufacturers’s pedigree was a big influence. There is no viewfinder, just a screen to shoot from. The menu settings offer a lot of options but has a simple user interface.

My iPhone can produce technically better photos in almost every situation. That isn’t the point. I wanted a camera with a different personality, one that was intentional, deliberate, instead of convenience.

The D-Lux, now re-named to Liesel,2 is small enough to carry everywhere, and enough to produce images with a look that modern sensors will computationally smooth over. The older CCD sensor has a color signature that many photographers still appreciate, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it renders on the street.

For a ridiculously low price, I found something special. It came with the camera, charger, three batteries, all leather Leica carry case, original boxes and paperwork. It isn’t a collector’s item and not a relic because this camera is meant to be used.

Sometimes the best camera isn’t the newest one. It’s the one that makes you want to head out the door and start making photographs again.

  1. unheard of for a compact camera! ↩︎
  2. Liesel, is a popular name for a woman in Germany, because Leica is a German manufacturer) ↩︎
February 16, 2022 / / Journal

Minnie

I just acquired the 1976 Minolta AutoPak 110mm film camera and I am loving the simplicity. Add one AA battery for exposure and flash, then load my Lomography Metropolis 110 film and I am off to capture 36 exposures in all it’s retro glory.

Lightweight, fits in my pocket and I love the minimal design.

February 6, 2022 / / Journal

Zen and the Art of Photography Pt 2

After my previous post I have thought of even more active practices to apply a mindset for more purposeful photography.

Thirty-Six Exposures

36 exposures waiting for something beautiful


When shooting digital images in the past, I would try to capture anything and everything with little to show for it. Using a 35mm film camera, you have only 36 exposure of film in one roll so every shot has to count. Digital is cheaper than analog so I can snap all I want, but with film, you have to be more intentional, more deliberate. Setting a limitation of only 36 images with my digital camera is a good thing. I can relax, focus on the present and focus on those images I want.

One Camera, One Lens
In the past, I would walk out with a camera and multiple lenses because “You never know when you’ll need it.” How many of those lenses were used- only the one. How liberating and relaxing is it not to think about that extra weight carried in the camera bag? Again, setting out with limitations creates intentionality.

Simply The Workflow
Shooting in jpeg as opposed to RAW format produces smaller images and faster transfer times to speed up the process. Removing Adobe Lightroom from the workflow allows me to work faster. Apple Photos app has improved to a degree where no other software is needed. However, if I want to process images even more, I have Pixelmator. Both are tied into the Apple photo ecosystem and allows you to focus more on what I want to do, such as make more images.

Delete Social Media
Followers, Likes and heart emojis do not ascertain your photograph’s worth. They do not reflect on what the image means to you. I publish photos without expectations or delusions of grandeur on my own websites because it makes me happy. With your own website you control the aesthetics, no algorithm, no tracking and no advertising. This is Zen.

Also, publish your work digitally, in the form of an e-book or portfolio. It is a better way to distribute to your website followers and loved ones in a .pdf format than print is. This is the way.

Less Gear, More Comfort
Instead of investing in that shiny new camera or lens, put your money into yourself such as a good pair of shoes. When I plan for a photo walk or hike, I want to enjoy the experience, in the moment without discomfort. If possible, donate your unused gear to someone just starting out. New photography from other budding artists is always a good thing.

Airplane Mode
The desire to check your notifications, read email or catch up on the latest news in your feed distracts focusing on the here and now. Your image quality will be affected. Be present in the moment.

Reflection
Seeing your image materialize on photographic paper in a darkroom is one of the most amazing experiences you can have in photography. Likewise the experience when reviewing on your digital device. Apple Photos displays images much like an analog contact sheet. On an iPad it is glorious to swipe through, favorite, delete, edit and save. Looking at each image with intentionality is a rewarding experience after all your time and effort.

Reliving those beautiful experiences in digital or analog

Grounding
Reconnect with yourself in the outdoors while shooting. Focus on your breathing while focusing on your image, then snap. Create opportunities to get out and enjoy your surroundings, there is beauty in everything now go find it.

More Practices To Be Discovered
That’s it for now, but until next time- This is photographic zen. This is the way.
February 3, 2022 / / Journal

Zen and the Art of Photography

After studying but putting forth little effort into the zen philosophy last year, I think I will attempt it again this year. But what if I can apply those principles into something I enjoy such as photography? I can create a hybrid of the two and enjoy both even further.
There are more than seven practices of course, but these seem to be fundamental and can be applied to photography.

Curiosity
Having a camera is a passport to explore the world with different perspectives. By keeping an open mind and seeing your subjects differently we can open up new opportunities and more rewarding images.

Focus
Sure, I desire to fly towards exotic destinations and capture those epic scenes, but reality says I must be present in my current situation. This requires the discipline of focus. Likewise if I try to capture all the things around me, I will capture nothing of consequence. Focus on the moment, the subject and the outcome for best results.

Positivity
I am generally an optimistic person but I haven’t been lately. Staying positive in all situations makes me and those around me better. I can get frustrated if a scene or shot doesn’t go my way. If I remain calm, slow down and focus this will lead to happiness with my photography and my life. Fun fact: zen is dependent on happiness.

Seek beauty in all things
Admittingly, this is a challenge for me. I’ve been disappointed in shooting my current surroundings because they were boring, over-shot, repetitive, and wanting more. If I slow down, focus and stay positive. A good photographer sees something in the moment that no one else does. All things do have a certain beauty in them.

Live in the moment
This can be applied under “Focus” as well. A general acceptance of the here and now. An acceptance of myself, and of others. Minimizing distractions and enjoying where I am currently.

Minimalism or simplicity
I’ve done what I can do minimize possessions and to simplify my life, why not do the same for photography? Why not minimize distractions in the viewfinder and focus on something simplistic? This can include simplifying subjects or a scene, simplifying your gear and enjoying the process.

Walking meditation
A lot of issues can be solved with walking. It offers clarity, strengthens the mind and the body. Taking a camera along for a photo walk affords a lot of opportunities. Your mind and body are clear, so now too your images.

Practicing the art of zen photography emphasizes who we are and is reflected in the images we make. Do I make the world around me a better place, am I a better person for it and do my images reflect this? I don’t know but I am eager to apply these practices the next time I go out with the camera.
January 23, 2022 / / Outdoors + Travel

New Orleans Street Photography

January 22, 2022 / / Outdoors + Travel

‘Nawlins Neon

A few captures from Rue Bourbon.
January 18, 2022 / / Photography

108 Exposures

Finally received my Lomography 35 and 110mm film and I am ready to test these out. I have never shot 800 speed and I am looking forward to the colors and contrasts.

January 18, 2022 / / Photography

Anti-Boring

One of my goals this year is to create images that leave viewers guessing. Or, if nothing else, makes them think. I still haven’t had a chance to work on it but I will. For me, the aesthetic leans towards not just black and white, but heavily contrasted black and white highlights.There is always something to shoot, even the mundane, so why not spice up the mundane?

This can include different lighting and understanding how light/shadows work with your subject.

Abstract

Daily Life

Mundane Made Interesting
January 16, 2022 / / Outdoors + Travel

Photography Workflow Using the iPad Pro M1

I had first published this guide in early 2019 in an effort to simplify my post-process photography workflow using the 2018 iPad. After decades of desktop and laptop processing, I wondered if the iPad was a solution for me.

Previous year articles from 2021 and 2019

Can the iPad replace the laptop for my photography post-process?

So much has changed since then that I have continued the series and decided to write a new post about it. The evolution in gear, software, and process has been a fun process to look back on and wonder how we managed to get anything done at all. But where there is a will, there are many ways. I will cover what my photography workflow looks like, but ultimately, everyone needs to choose what’s right for them. Workflows are personal and modified as needed. This topic seems to be a crowd favorite because each year these posts receive a lot of traffic and attention (thank you!)

A few months after that last post, I upgraded to the 12.9” Apple iPad M1 (5th Gen) and fine-tuned my workflow. Now, I also upgraded the laptop to the 2021 MacBook Pro M1, and it is no slouch. However, the photo workflow is different, limiting and feels almost antiquated. For now, the MacBook is a tool for me to curate my digital photo archives using Adobe Lightroom Classic, and that’s it. Here are some of the ways an iPad is more beneficial to me:

Multi-input workflow

Photography is a hands-on experience, and it is a joy to continue this on the iPad. Much like using your hands to develop your film negatives, so too are your fingers, the keyboard, and the Apple Pencil for finer control. Using a mouse to manipulate images is too impersonal for me now.

Storage

Thanks to the iPad and cloud services, there is an easier, more secure way to store images you’ve taken. This allows me to focus more on what I want to do (photography), rather than moving files around. I have 2 TB of iCloud storage waiting to receive my image uploads from either my camera or the iPhone. There is another 20 GB of storage in the Adobe cloud. Current images I am shooting are uploaded, stored and easily accessible on any of my devices.

My data transfer and storage needs to be effortless, to the point I don’t have to think about it. I mentioned the MacBook and my archives previously- that’s the only time I want to think about storage. I do organize images on the hard drive and then migrate them into the Archives stored on the 10 TB external hard drive.

Performance

The iPad has been granted a full-time job from me. It is the most powerful, fastest, and more interactive device I own. The ability to handle images in RAW format while asking for more work to do is remarkable to me. Battery life is spectacular, although it has a massive screen. Speaking of that massive screen, nothing makes me happier than reviewing my photos on such a beautiful screen. Much like the analog contact sheets, I can sort through quickly and determine which are the keepers and which get tossed into the digital bin. That M1 chip really knows how to process faster and distribute power evenly.

Mobile

Sure, the 12.9” iPad is large, and the magic keyboard that it magnetically attaches to adds weight. But it is still smaller and lighter than lugging a laptop with all the dongles, charger and cables around. Something else I am enjoying is the 5G connectivity. The ability to travel, make images, load them up into the cloud instantly is nothing short of brilliant. Want to check the forecast for the next day’s shooting? Care to watch that video tutorial of local street photographers while you travel? Start post-processing your images and have them secured until you get back home? Publish your work while on the go? It is all possible with that iPad.

Hardware & Software

Below is what I minimally use to produce a maximum photography workflow.

  1. Apple 12.9” iPad Pro (5th gen) – My mobile photo lab.
  2. Apple Pencil – Precision editing tool
  3. CharJen Mini stick- A USB-C adapter with SD card port, charging port
  4. Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro – All in one keyboard & cover
  5. Apple Photos – Store, review, edit.
  6. Adobe Lightroom – for photo post-processing, organization
  7. iCloud – for backup and syncing across devices using Photos app
  8. Adobe Creative Cloud – for backup and syncing across devices in Lightroom

Extra Tools In The Darkroom

Capture tools include Sony A7III, iPhone, iPad Pro and a collection of analog film cameras. Post-processing labs include Adobe Lightroom, Pixelmator Pro, VSCO and Hipstamatic. Portfolio and galleries that host the final images can be viewed at PhotoDenbow.com and ChrisDenbow.com

Conclusion

The iPad is a great workspace for editing your photos. It is my personal, mobile photo lab. I can process my images in bed or on a plane, or even in between photo shoots when I am out and about. This makes the iPad the perfect tool for my photography.

January 13, 2022 / / Photography

Intrigue

Something I’ve been wanting to do lately is creating intriguing or compelling photographs. The not-so-obvious images that is designed to make people think. A simple scene that tells a story but leaves the viewer wondering. I have some ideas but not the means of executing them at the moment. Work in progress.
January 13, 2022 / / Journal

Can’t Get No Satisfaction

Photographers are always unsatisfied. If this wasn’t true, then why would we still venture out to seek something unique or capture something with our own perspective?
January 9, 2022 / / Journal

Stick With It

This post is a reminder to me and/or anyone else who can glean something from it. I find my interests go through a lot of ebb and flow, and occasionally this can be discouraging. However, I also find myself returning to some of those interests and that is encouraging.

You are an artist

How is it that people, especially photographers, don’t refer to themselves as artists? If you can pick up a pencil, a paintbrush, a camera, a musical instrument, etc. you’re in the club. Get over the imposter syndrome and just create for yourself. If other people enjoy it as well, then bonus. Success, legitimacy and “likes” are for those seeking attention.

Take Risks

There will always be a knowledge gap, challenges, risks, and even fear. Use all of that to take advantage of opportunities to create.

Delete Your Social Media Accounts

Remember those “likes” that I referred to previously? Ditch ’em. Your creativity is not beholden to others scrolling through their feeds.

Gear Doesn’t Matter

Use what you can, master it. Then consider upgrading.

Share Your Knowledge

Pass on what you have learned rather than hoarding it. Knowledge is beneficial for everyone.

Stick With It

I mentioned before that I’ve been shooting for forty years and I still haven’t figured it out. The moment I stop believing that is the moment I’ve lost the point. I want to continue to explore and create, and I have a long way to go.

Stay Curious My Friends

The desire to keep practicing is to keep learning and wanting more. There will always be more. This is the best reason to stick with it and create.

January 9, 2022 / / Journal

Photography 2022

If I stop to think about it, and I have, I realized that my passion for photography goes back exactly forty years. Damn. It all started when I received a Kodak Disc camera as a gift back in 1982. This thing was so easy to use that a child could do it. Pop the disc in, snap, take to the one-hour photo booth, buy more discs when you are there and then enjoy the prints. Well, then the Minolta disc came along shortly after and wow, my first upgrade. This thing had a handle that you could also prop up to use as a stand and a tiny mirror in the front. So let’s all blame Minolta for the selfie trend starting back in the early eighties. My high school had a photography class complete with dark room and print lab. Loved it until it was time to play football. Thereafter, it’s been a few point and shoot cameras until 2001 when I bought my first digital camera. So yeah, you can say I’ve enjoyed photography for quite a while. So, why stick it out this long?

The Kodak and Minolta Disc cameras circa 1982

As much as photography has been a part of my life I still feel like a poser or a wannabe although I’ve been published in books, magazines, websites, sold my work, organized and hosted two photography conferences in two major cities, owned my own business, and participated in two art shows. I do have some laments:

  • No prints on the wall
  • No photo books on the shelf
  • No decent organization to the archives
  • What’s the point of all these photos if they are buried in a hard drive?

These will all change this year starting with the Archives. Organized by years, finally, I’ll need to go back in and cull the duplicates and delete the undesired photos. Then, add geotags, face recognition, and keywords for better sorting and search. Then and only then can I begin to think of hanging prints or publishing photo books.

My photography means a lot to me and now it is time to completely enjoy it.