Leica just launched their #StayHomeWithLeica program which provides free online talks with photographers and creatives from across the globe as well as a weekly photo challenge.

-Staff

A lot of creatives have been forced to rethink their approach when in comes to producing content which has re-fueled the Facetime photoshoot. This isn’t anything new, in fact, Kim Kardashian brought it into the mainstream mindset in 2015 for her Interview Magazine cover but yesterday Bella Hadid kicked the digital window wide open again. Her Vogue Italia shoot pushed the boundaries as it had multiple people on FT including a stylist for the project. I think this is something we’re going to have to get used to in the days, months and perhaps years to come as things are undeniably changing. Do I like it? I can see how the voyeuristic factor plays a roll and how it can be extremely relatable to the younger viewers because let’s face it, kids would rather FT than hangout and text instead of call. I don’t love the concept and I’m not opposed to it, but I am curious to see how far this will go. Is it going to get to a point where we can remotely access cameras (not like this) from across the world? Will this devalue the need of a “pro photographer” or eliminate the financial compensation for all of those whom are usually on set directing and aiding the project? I suppose only time will tell.

If you’re interested in trying a FTPS, we found some pointers for you here.

-Danny

 Pictures For Elmhurst is a print sale of work by New York-based photographers with all proceeds going directly to Elmhurst Hospital Center in order to fight the Covid-19 emergency.

Available for 10 days starting today. You can support the project here

-Staff

Netflix just released their L.A. Originals documentary showcasing the photography of Estevan Oriol and the tattooing of Mr. Cartoon. Throw on your Dickie’s and get ready for a wild ride.

-Staff

I’m extremely grateful to be able to replenish the stock on our Studio trucker hats. With a lot of the access to local production sources being shut down, it’s amazing to know that we’ve built a solid relationship with a small, tight knit circle of trusted people that can always get things done. 

Support your local businesses. It’s a sad fact that there will be a lot of establishments that won’t make it through this.

-Danny

The BoF just issued a report on the future spectrum of fashion and the inevitable changes that we’ll see (already starting) as the landscape has dramatically changed due to Covid-19. There’s a lot of information if processed and applied correctly that can gear large and small businesses towards tailoring a sustainable and optimistic transition during these times and the future ahead.  

You can read it here.

-Danny

Have you ever come across something while surfing the net and instantly asking yourself, “why didn’t I think of that”? Well, you’re not alone. I think the problem with being a creative is the fact that we’re constantly looking at life in antidotal metrics trying to discover new ways to improve or enhance already existing products and problems that sometimes we miss what’s right in front of us. Very seldom is the answer to re-invent the wheel but more so to find contemporary ways to pour new life into an already existing foundation. For instance, a 35mm film canister. A bland, lifeless plastic cylinder that serves to protect the format in which we create some of our most cherished moments. If you’re working with 120mm, forget about it. All you get is a mundane wrapper that is about as exciting as an old condom wrapper that one might find tucked between couch cushions or in a drawer somewhere. Again, bland and unexciting but then a mind noticed this void and did something about it. Rama Works® x The Mighty Killers introduced a brilliantly designed film canister for us 35mm and 120mm shooters. This is a prime example of seeing an opportunity for improvement and executing it in a manner that brings it into the now. How many of us have just thrown those little plastic cylinders away? I know I have. Bravo to everyone involved in this project.

Is this product overpriced and unnecessary? Perhaps, but that isn’t my point. My point is that there’s millions of things surrounding us just begging to be noticed, respectfully re-designed and brought to the market in a refreshing way.

-Danny

Face masks have always been a popular thing in Eastern countries due to the smog and air quality in those regions but due to the current Covid-19 climate and vast numbers of those being infected skyrocketing daily, we’re now starting to see masks being worn on our home turf. Westerners are embracing the new accessory and big box luxury brands are implementing their own take on the apparatus as a way of showing good faith in these trying times. Or so I would like to believe that’s their motive. Though I do appreciate their ingenuity and resourcefulness when it comes to using current technologies, it would be hard to dismiss the fact that majority of the brands that are now transitioning their product developments into a singular objective are doing so without applying the proper filtration system (N95) that will block out (or keep in) the virus. So, are they supplying the masses with PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) or is this just simply strategic branding? I would love to sit here and say that we are all sticking through this together without any ulterior motives but that would be naive, especially from a marketing standpoint.

-Danny

I’ve wanted one of these cameras for ages but could never find a mint condition (with original box) offering. last week I was randomly watching an old short film of skateboarder, Alex Olson, on YouTube and there was a clip of him shooting with the Polaroid [Mamiya] 600se which reminded me about my hunt. To my surprise I stumbled upon a brand new unused GOOSE (600se) but the price was way too rich for my blood. Fear not, I am not one to be defeated before throwing down a good old fashioned haggle. After messaging the seller back and forth and working my magic, I locked in the sale at a ridiculous price. It arrived today and honestly the camera is nothing short of beautiful. As much as I wish Fuji continued to produce their pack film (FP100C) I’ve decided to order a motorized 3D printed back so I can shoot current Polaroid film rather than paying $70 for 10 shots of expired Fuji. I’ll update you when it comes in but until then you can read a superb review on this particular camera here.

-Danny

Whitney styled in Gucci®

-Staff