The Photographer's Secret Weapon: How Setapp Saves Time, Money, and Creative Headspace

As a photographer, your brain is your most valuable asset. It’s where you compose shots, connect with clients, and envision your final edits. But too often, that creative energy gets siphoned off by mundane tasks. What if you could offload all that digital clutter and get back to what you do best? Enter Setapp.

What Exactly is Setapp? (And Why Photographers Should Care)

In simple terms, Setapp is a Netflix-style subscription for premium Mac applications. For a single monthly fee, you get unlimited access to a growing collection of over 240+ top-tier apps, all curated, updated, and ready to use.

For photographers, this is a game-changer. Our workflow isn't linear; it’s a chaotic mix of file management, editing, communication, marketing, and admin. Setapp provides a Swiss Army knife for every single one of those challenges.

Taming the Chaos: File Management and Organisation

Every photographer’s nightmare is a disorganised hard drive. Setapp includes powerhouse apps that turn chaos into order.

CleanMyMac X: Before you import your shots, ensure your Mac is running smoothly. This app helps you clear out gigabytes of junk files, freeing up crucial space for your massive RAW files.
ChronoSync: Backup is non-negotiable. ChronoSync is a robust tool for creating automated backups. Sleep soundly knowing your work is protected.
Archiver: Clients send files in all sorts of compressed formats. Archiver lets you open, create, and convert any archive with a simple drag-and-drop.

Beyond the RAW Edit: Niche Editing and Utility Tools

While Setapp doesn’t replace Adobe Creative Cloud, it offers incredible niche tools that address the specific needs of photographers.

Image Editing Tools: Apps like CameraBag Pro offer powerful batch processing, making it easy to apply a consistent look quickly.

The Business of Photography: Client Management and Marketing

This is where Setapp truly pays for itself. Running a photography business means being a CEO, a salesperson, and a customer service agent.

TaskPaper: Keep your projects and to-dos organised in a simple, plain-text format. Perfect for tracking a wedding shot list.

The Setapp Experience: Seamless Integration and Discovery

The magic of Setapp isn't just the apps; it's the platform. All apps are downloaded and updated through the sleek Setapp desktop app. Its built-in search function is incredible. Have a task you need to do? Just type it in.

This eliminates the endless Google searches for "best app to..." and lets you discover tools you never knew you needed, all included in your subscription.

Pricing: A No-Brainer for the Working Photographer

Let's do the math. A single license for just one of the apps mentioned, like CleanMyMac X, can cost nearly the same as an annual Setapp subscription.

Setapp pricing starts at $9.99 per month. For the price of a few coffees, you get a full suite of applications that would cost hundreds to purchase individually. It’s arguably one of the most cost-effective investments you can make in your photography business.

Is Setapp the Right Tool for Your Photography Toolkit?

If you are a photographer who uses a Mac and values your time, the answer is a resounding yes. Setapp is for you if:

You’re tired of juggling multiple free trials and paid subscriptions.
You waste time searching for tools to solve one-off problems.
You want to professionalise your business operations without massive overhead.
You love discovering new, powerful apps that can boost your productivity.

Ready to Revolutionise Your Workflow?

Stop piecing together your digital toolkit and start using a platform built for pros. Click here to start your free 7-day trial of Setapp. There's no credit card required upfront, so you can freely explore the entire library.

What’s your biggest workflow headache? Would a tool like Setapp solve it? Let us know in the comments below!

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links to Setapp. If you subscribe through our link, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services I truly believe will benefit our fellow photographers.

Hasselblad X2D II 100C + XCD 35–100mm: why you should pre-order this medium-format powerhouse now

Pre-order Hasselblad X2D II 100C & XCD 35–100mm — 100MP HDR, LiDAR AF, 10-stop IBIS (Buy Guide)

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links to Wex Photo Video. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our site and allows us to continue providing in-depth reviews and content. Thank you for your support!

The Hasselblad X2D II 100C brings LiDAR-assisted AF, true in-camera HDR, 16-bit colour and up to 10-stop IBIS around a proven 100MP BSI sensor. Read our buyer-intent guide and pre-order links for the camera and new XCD 35–100mm zoom.

Quick snapshot: what matters to buyers

Sensor & colour: 100MP BSI CMOS, 16-bit RAW, Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution with HDR. (Hasselblad)
Autofocus: Continuous AF (AF-C) with LiDAR assistance and a 425-point hybrid AF system (phase + contrast + LiDAR) for faster, more reliable subject tracking. (The Verge)
HDR & dynamic range: True end-to-end in-camera HDR workflow with up to 15.3 stops of dynamic range. (B&H Photo Video)
Stabilisation: 5-axis in-body stabilisation delivering up to 10 stops of correction — game-changing for handheld long exposures on medium format. (Hasselblad)
Lens partnership: XCD 35–100mm f/2.8–4 E — compact, sharp across the frame, 16 elements in 13 groups, 0.4m minimum focus distance and ~19% lighter than the 35–75mm it complements. (Hasselblad, DPReview)

Why the X2D II 100C is more than “just” a resolution upgrade

High resolution used to mean slower, tripod-only workflows. Hasselblad’s approach here is different: they kept the 100MP backside-illuminated sensor photographers love (it still delivers extraordinary detail and tone), but they wrapped it in the modern usability features pros demand — continuous AF with LiDAR, end-to-end HDR handling, and very strong IBIS. That combination turns a studio-grade image maker into a versatile field tool for portraits, landscapes, fine art and even some commercial run-and-gun work where you previously wouldn’t have risked a medium-format sensor. (Hasselblad, The Verge)

Practical buyer point: if you value colour fidelity, highlight retention and ultimate detail for large prints or commercial work, this camera is designed to deliver those strengths while shrinking the gap in autofocus/stabilisation performance that used to keep medium format locked in the studio. (B&H Photo Video)

Autofocus & LiDAR — real gains for real shooting

The headline addition for many buyers is Hasselblad’s LiDAR-assisted AF working alongside a 425-point hybrid AF array (phase + contrast + LiDAR). That makes continuous AF (AF-C) much more useful for moving subjects than older medium-format designs — think more successful portrait sessions with subtle subject motion, and tighter focus when shooting between obstructions or in low-contrast scenes. For wedding, event and outdoor portrait shooters who need both resolution and reliability, this is important. (The Verge)

HDR, 16-bit colour and 15.3 stops — why that matters to image quality

Hasselblad markets the X2D II as the first medium-format camera with “true end-to-end HDR.” Practically, that translates to camera-captured HDR HEIF/JPEG options and better highlight retention straight out of capture plus 16-bit RAW for editing latitude. The quoted 15.3 stops of dynamic range gives you a huge palette for preserving midtones and highlights without sacrificing shadow detail — ideal for landscape, product and location portrait work destined for large prints or advertising. (B&H Photo Video)

Stabilisation: handheld medium format becomes practical

One of the most buyer-relevant specs is 5-axis IBIS rated up to 10 stops. That opens up creative options: slower hand-held exposures for motion blur effects, cleaner high-ISO work for available-light portraits, and fewer trips to the tripod. For professional workflows where speed and mobility matter (editorial, travel, commercial location work), IBIS of this calibre changes how often you’ll reach for the tripod. (Hasselblad)

The XCD 35–100mm f/2.8–4 E — the zoom that keeps up

The new 35–100mm standard-to-telephoto zoom was clearly designed to be a real partner to the X2D II: it covers an equivalent ~28–76mm range, offers a bright max aperture (f/2.8 at the wide end), and uses advanced E-Series optics with a complex 16-element, 13-group design to keep corner-to-corner sharpness high. The lens is compact for medium format, accepts 86mm filters, offers a 0.4m minimum focus distance and — crucially — is notably lighter than some previous standard zooms in Hasselblad’s range. If you want a single, versatile lens for portrait sessions, travel or editorial assignments, this is the one to consider. (Hasselblad, DPReview)

Who should pre-order the X2D II + 35–100mm?

Portrait and commercial shooters who print large and need immaculate tone and colour.
Travel and editorial photographers who want medium-format image quality but need AF, IBIS and a practical zoom.
Landscape & fine-art shooters wanting the widest dynamic range and HDR options built into capture.
Existing Hasselblad owners looking to add a more versatile walk-around zoom and a faster AF experience.

If you fit one of these profiles, pre-ordering makes sense: this is a camera that shifts medium format from a specialist, studio tool to a wider set of real-world assignments. (The Verge)

Final buying checklist (before you click “pre-order”)

Do you need 100MP? If you sell large prints or need extreme crop ability, yes. If not, a high-end full-frame might be more cost-effective.
Lens plan: The 35–100mm is an excellent walk-around for medium format — add it if you want one-lens versatility. (Hasselblad)
Workflow: Make sure your editing/storage pipeline handles 16-bit RAW and very large files (and consider the camera’s support for Phocus Mobile 2 if you want HDR mobile workflows). (Hasselblad)
Stabilisation: If you rely on handheld shooting, IBIS up to 10 stops is a practical advantage — a major reason to choose the X2D II over older medium-format bodies. (Hasselblad)

Affiliate - Buy / Pre-Order

Hasselblad’s new X2D II 100C and the XCD 35–100mm are listed with authorised dealers now (prices vary by region). If you’re ready to buy or pre-order, use the retailer links below.

Bottom line

The X2D II 100C is a strategic rethink of modern medium format: the exacting 100MP image quality you expect from Hasselblad, wrapped in autofocus speed, true in-camera HDR, and industry-leading stabilisation — and paired with a compact, high-quality 35–100mm zoom. For photographers who need the ultimate stills image with more freedom to shoot handheld and follow subjects, pre-ordering the body and the new XCD 35–100mm makes strong sense. Ready to order? Use the WEX links above to pre-order the camera and lens today.

Sources & further reading: Hasselblad product pages and authorised dealer spec sheets; first-look reviews and hands-on coverage from major outlets. (Hasselblad, B&H Photo Video, DPReview, The Verge)

Why Professional Photographers Choose Adobe Photoshop + Lightroom CC: Faster Workflows, Better Looks, and Real Business Value

If you’re a photographer focused on creating standout images and scaling your business, the right editing tools aren’t optional — they’re essential. Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom CC together form the industry standard for image editing and management. This guide explains the concrete benefits photographers gain from using these apps — from RAW processing and non-destructive edits to batch workflows, masking, colour grading, and cloud-based collaboration — and finishes with a clear call-to-action and ready-to-paste Blogger elements.

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the blog and allows me to continue to create content like this. I only recommend products and services that I genuinely believe in and use myself. Thank you for your support!

Why Lightroom CC matters for photographers

Lightning-fast RAW processing and tethered shooting

Lightroom CC reads RAW files from virtually every modern camera, giving you maximum tonal latitude. Its RAW engine renders cleaner shadows and highlights than JPEG editing, so you can recover detail without introducing noise or artefacts. Tethered capture (supported in Lightroom Classic and integrations with Lightroom CC) lets you shoot and immediately review large previews on a laptop — invaluable for studio sessions and client reviews.

Non-destructive edits and smart versioning

Lightroom’s non-destructive workflow means every adjustment is stored as metadata — your original file never changes. Create virtual copies for different looks, experiment with exposure and white balance, and revert to the original at any time without increasing disk usage.

Powerful organisational tools

Keywording, face detection, flags, and colour labels let you organise thousands of images quickly. Use Smart Collections to auto-group client shoots, best-of galleries, or deliverables — so you spend minutes finding the right photo instead of hours.

Why Photoshop is still indispensable

Pixel-level retouching and advanced composites

Photoshop remains unmatched for precision retouching (frequency separation, advanced cloning/healing) and layering. When a photo needs blemish removal, precise dodging and burning, or complex composites — Photoshop gives you control down to the pixel level.

Selections, masking, and content-aware tools

Photoshop’s selection algorithms (Select Subject, Select and Mask) and layer masks enable complex isolated edits — change skies, swap backgrounds, or apply local colour grading. Content-Aware Fill speeds up object removal, saving dozens of minutes on tricky edits.

Creative freedom and finishing touches

From frequency separation skin retouching to liquify and perspective correction, Photoshop delivers creative finishing options that Lightroom can’t match. Combine multiple exposures, blend retouched layers, and export print-ready files with exacting specs.

Workflow benefits when you use both

Start fast in Lightroom, finish in Photoshop

A highly efficient workflow: batch adjust exposure, white balance, and lens corrections in Lightroom, then open individual files in Photoshop for high-end retouching. Edits round-trip between the two apps while preserving history.

Presets, profiles, and synced looks

Create or buy Lightroom presets and camera profiles to standardise your brand look across all client shoots. Sync those settings across all images from a session to produce consistent galleries that require only minor finishing in Photoshop.

Batch processing and time savings

Lightroom’s Library and Develop modules enable global edits to hundreds of photos at once (sync, copy/paste develop settings, or apply presets on import). That slashes post-production time and increases per-day billable outputs.

Creative and business advantages

Faster client delivery = more clients

Faster turnaround — enabled by Lightroom batch tools and smart culling — means happier clients and more referrals. Faster delivery also lets you win rush jobs and charge premium prices.

Higher-quality deliverables for premium pricing

Photoshop gives you the tools to deliver magazine-quality retouching, composite edits, and print-ready files. That quality supports higher rates and better brand positioning.

Mobile editing and client previews

Lightroom CC’s cloud sync and mobile app allow you to show proofs on an iPad or phone during a shoot. Clients can mark selects in real time, reducing re-shoots and speeding approvals.

Key features photographers should use

Profiles & Presets — Build a signature style and apply it consistently.
Local Adjustments — Graduated filters, radial filters, and the Adjustment Brush in Lightroom; layer masks and curves in Photoshop.
Healing & Cloning — Quickly remove distractions in both apps; use Photoshop for complex repairs.
Layered Compositing — Blend exposures, add overlays, or composite multiple images in Photoshop.
Lens Corrections & Geometry — Automatic lens profiles and Upright transform fix perspective issues fast.
Batch Export & Watermarking — Export web, print, and client-ready sizes with presets.
Cloud sync & versioning — Access your catalogue anywhere and roll back changes easily.

Real-world examples

Wedding photographers: Use Lightroom to cull thousands of images, apply consistent colour grading with presets, and export galleries. Use Photoshop to perfect portraits and remove unwanted scene elements.
Portrait/studio shooters: Tether into Lightroom for live previews, apply retouching workflows in Photoshop for high-end magazines, and keep client proofs synced via Lightroom mobile.
Landscape photographers: Master RAW processing in Lightroom for dynamic range and colour; use Photoshop for focus stacks, advanced blending, and panorama stitching.

Ready to get started? For photographers who want the fastest path from shoot to finished image, the Photoshop + Lightroom CC combo is a clear winner. Try it now and see the difference in your workflow and final images.

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Ricoh GR IV Preorder Now Open at Wex | Street Photography’s Favorite Camera Returns

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to book flights, travel insurance, or gear rentals, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports the blog and helps fund future travel photography guides. Thank you!

Introduction: The Next Evolution in the GR Legacy

Few names in photography inspire the same loyalty as the Ricoh GR series. For decades, this iconic compact camera has been the go-to tool for street photographers, travel shooters, and creatives who value portability without sacrificing image quality.

Now, fans of the series have something new to get excited about: the Ricoh GR IV is officially available for preorder at Wex. This launch introduces major upgrades across the board, from a redesigned lens to a brand-new image processor—making it one of the most significant updates in the GR lineup to date.

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to upgrade your everyday carry camera, the GR IV might be the one. Let’s break down exactly what’s new and why it matters.

A New 25.74MP Sensor for Stunning Detail

One of the standout improvements of the GR IV is the 25.74-megapixel APS-C sensor. Compared to the previous generation, this bump in resolution ensures your images have more clarity, depth, and flexibility for cropping.

For street photographers who often capture fleeting moments from a distance, having that extra resolution can make all the difference when reframing shots later in post-production.

Updated GR Image Processing Engine

Equally important is the new GR image processor. Ricoh has built a reputation for delivering rich, natural tones and lifelike rendering, and the GR IV continues this tradition.

The updated processor is designed not just for speed, but for improved color accuracy, reduced noise, and better overall performance. Whether you’re shooting in low light alleys or brightly lit city streets, the GR IV promises to keep up with your creative vision.

ISO Boost to 204,000: Low-Light Made Easier

Low-light shooting is where many compact cameras fall short—but not here. The GR IV pushes its maximum ISO all the way up to 204,000.

That’s a huge leap, giving photographers confidence in dimly lit cafés, nighttime streets, or indoor environments. Combined with the new processor, the high ISO capabilities make this camera far more versatile in real-world shooting conditions.

5-Axis Sensor-Shift SR for Shake-Free Shots

Another first for the GR series: 5-axis sensor-shift Shake Reduction (SR). This stabilization system counters hand shake in real time, helping to deliver crisp handheld shots at slower shutter speeds.

For street shooters who rarely carry tripods, this feature is a game-changer. It means sharper images in motion-heavy environments, and more freedom to shoot on the go without worrying about blur.

Redesigned 18.3mm Lens: Classic Focal Length, Improved Optics

The Ricoh GR series is beloved for its fixed 18.3mm lens (equivalent to 28mm in full-frame)—a focal length perfectly suited for street photography, environmental portraits, and urban landscapes.

With the GR IV, Ricoh has redesigned the optical structure, giving it 7 elements in 5 groups (including 3 aspherical elements). The result is improved sharpness, resolution, and edge-to-edge clarity.

Photographers can expect even better results straight out of camera, with the signature Ricoh rendering that fans know and love.

Built-In 53GB of Storage

Another surprising but welcome addition is the generous 53GB of internal storage. While most cameras rely solely on SD cards, the GR IV ensures you always have backup capacity.

For photographers who value minimalism—or those “just in case” moments when you forget your memory card—this feature adds peace of mind.

Why Street Photographers Love the Ricoh GR Series

To understand why the Ricoh GR IV is so important, it helps to know why its predecessors became cult favorites. The GR series is compact enough to slip into a jacket pocket but powerful enough to deliver DSLR-quality images. Its discreet form factor makes it less intimidating to subjects, which is essential in street photography.

With each new iteration, Ricoh has carefully refined—not reinvented—the formula. And with the GR IV, those refinements reach a new peak of performance and usability.

Should You Preorder the Ricoh GR IV?

If you’re a street, travel, or documentary photographer looking for:

Compact portability without compromising image quality
A discreet tool for capturing everyday life without drawing attention
Modern upgrades like stabilization, high ISO performance, and internal storage
Classic GR handling in a familiar body

…then the Ricoh GR IV is an obvious choice.

As with previous GR launches, early demand is expected to be high. Preordering ensures you’ll be among the first to experience the latest evolution of a legend.

Where to Preorder

The Ricoh GR IV is now available for preorder at Wex. Don’t miss your chance to secure one of the most anticipated compact cameras of the year.

👉 Preorder the Ricoh GR IV at Wex here

Conclusion: The Best GR Yet

The Ricoh GR IV takes everything photographers love about the GR series and enhances it with cutting-edge features. From the upgraded 25.74MP sensor to the powerful image processor, 5-axis stabilization, and redesigned lens, it’s a camera designed to inspire creativity and confidence.

Whether you’re a longtime GR fan or new to the series, this is the moment to join the community of photographers who trust the Ricoh GR as their everyday creative companion.

👉 Click here to preorder the Ricoh GR IV at Wex

How to Use Airline Miles to Fund Your Dream Photography Trip (Step-by-Step)

Photo by Asad Photo Maldives from Pexels:

How to Use Airline Miles to Fund Your Dream Photography Trip (Step-by-Step)

Ever dreamed of waking up in Paris, hiking through Patagonia, or catching golden hour in Tokyo — without breaking the bank on airfare? Airline miles can turn that dream photography trip into a reality. Over the past decade, I’ve booked more than a dozen trips entirely (or mostly) with miles, freeing up budget for better gear, local guides, and extra shooting days.

Here’s my step-by-step guide — from earning miles to booking the perfect award flight — plus tips on what to pack so you don’t miss a single shot.

Step 1 — Plan your trip around the award calendars

Before you start clicking “redeem,” check the award calendars of your preferred airlines. Many programs release award seats 330–355 days in advance, and the cheapest mileage rates often appear early. Flexibility with your dates (and even destinations) can save you tens of thousands of miles.

Pro tip: Consider “shoulder seasons” — the period right before or after peak tourist months. You’ll find cheaper award rates, fewer crowds, and more relaxed shooting conditions.

Step 2 — Pick the best loyalty program for photographers

Not all airline miles are equal. Some programs have more generous stopover policies or better partner networks — perfect for combining multiple photography spots on one trip.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan — Excellent for long-haul flights with generous stopovers. Book directly: Check Alaska Airlines award flights.
Southwest Rapid Rewards — Ideal for domestic US photo trips with two free checked bags (great for hauling gear). Check rates: Search Southwest award flights.

Step 3 — Earn miles strategically

You can accumulate miles through:

Flying with your chosen airline and partners.
Using co-branded credit cards for daily spending.
Booking hotels and rental cars through airline portals.
Shopping online via airline shopping portals.

Sign-up bonuses from credit cards can sometimes fund an entire international round-trip in one go. Just make sure to pay balances in full — interest charges erase any value.

Step 4 — Search and book like a pro

When you’re ready to book, search for award space directly on your chosen airline’s website, and check partner sites for hidden availability. For example, Alaska’s site shows award seats on partners like Japan Airlines or Cathay Pacific that you won’t see elsewhere.

If you spot a good deal, grab it — award space can vanish within hours. Have your passport and dates ready.

Step 5 — Example booking scenarios

Here are two sample bookings I’ve done recently:

Example 1 — Alaska Airlines + partner award to Tokyo

Booked 11 months out, cost: 35,000 miles + $60 in taxes. One free stopover in Seattle to visit family. Saved ~$850 compared to cash fare. Book similar: Search Alaska award space.

Example 2 — Southwest hop for a desert shoot

Used 12,500 Rapid Rewards points for a last-minute trip to Arizona for landscape work. Two free checked bags meant I could bring my tripod, lighting kit, and drone. Book similar: Search Southwest award space.

Example 3 — Jetblue

Earn double TrueBlue points when you book flights on jetblue.com or the JetBlue app. Book similar: Search Jetblue.com

Example 3 — Air France / KLM

Get up to 204,000 Miles a year at the best rate to build your balance for your next adventure. Book similar: Search AirFrance/KLM

Step 6 — Pack smart for your photography goals

Nothing kills a trip faster than realising you left a critical lens or accessory at home. Use this checklist as a starting point:

Primary camera body + backup body (if possible)
Wide and telephoto lenses suited to your subject
Lightweight travel tripod
Extra batteries and memory cards
Portable backup drive or SSD
Weather protection for gear (rain covers, silica packs)

Step 7 — Consider renting gear on location

Instead of hauling heavy or speciality gear, rent at your destination. This saves weight, avoids baggage fees, and lets you try high-end gear for a fraction of the purchase price. Many rental companies partner with camera shops or ship directly to your hotel.

Step 8 — Protect your trip

Whether you’ve paid cash or used miles, a trip is still an investment. Travel insurance can cover cancellations, delays, and even gear damage. Compare options with coverage tailored for photographers and their equipment.

Final thoughts

Using airline miles strategically can unlock trips you might never have thought possible. For photographers, that means new landscapes, new cultures, and fresh inspiration — without draining your budget. Start earning, plan early, and you could be shooting for your next dream location sooner than you think.

Ready to start? Check award availability now: Alaska Airlines | Southwest Airlines | Air France / KLM | JetBlue.com