Jun 29, 2017 Uncategorized

Prime vs. Zoom Lenses: My Choice and the Reason Why

A Fresh Perspective (perhaps) on an Old Argument

Discover the pros and cons of zoom and prime lenses and why the author has a preference for prime lenses. Find out how engagement plays a crucial role in the creative process and why using a fixed focal length lens leads to a deeper connection with the subject and environment.
Jun 22, 2017 News

Irix Edge Gelatin Filter Set is now available!

Announcing a 15-piece set of ND filters for the Irix 15mm and 11mm lenses!

Introducing the Irix Edge Gelatin Filter Set - a set of fifteen neutral density gelatin filters specifically designed for Irix lenses. With three density factors and made with ultra-thin high-quality film to keep images free of distortions, these filters easily fit Irix lenses equipped with the rear 30 x 30mm filter slot. Perfect for obtaining a longer shutter speed or using an ND filter with a screw-in polarizer, the Irix Edge Gelatin Filter Set is a must-have for photographers. Get yours now for a recommended retail price of $8.45 US.
May 31, 2017 News

NEW Lens Correction Profiles for the Irix 15mm f/2.4 and 11mm f/4!

Customers asked. Irix listened.

Irix delivers improved lens correction profiles for Adobe Camera Raw and Lightroom, along with installation tutorials. The new profiles offer more accurate correction data for distortion and vignetting, as well as standard cataloging within the software. The installation process is made easy with instructional videos for both Windows and Mac users. Irix prioritizes quality and precision in their products and customer service. Visit irixusa.com for more information.
May 07, 2017 Tutorials

"Getting Your Zen on" with a Wide-Angle Lens

Get to Know the Short Lens to Unlock its Creative Potential

Learn how to perfect the art of wide-angle capture with our guide to understanding perspective and radial distortion, rectilinear projection, and camera angle. Discover the importance of knowing the distortion characteristics of your lens and experimentation to minimize unwanted curvature of lines. Get closer to maximize the impact of your shots and place objects as close to the center of the frame as possible to minimize distortion. Become one with your wide-angle lens and take your photography to the next level.
Apr 20, 2017 Tutorials

Star Trails and Time-Lapse: Two Shoots in One

A Simple and Fun Weekend Photo Project

Learn how to create stunning star trail and time-lapse photos with just a digital camera and a sturdy tripod. This quick and fun project will teach you the basics of wide-field astrophotography and how to blend a series of exposures to produce captivating images of the stars in motion. All you need is a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a normal to wide-angle lens, a sturdy tripod, an intervalometer, and a small flashlight or headlamp to check settings. After the shoot, use Lightroom or Photoshop to process your exposures and create stunning star trail images and time-lapse movies. Don't forget to check the weather forecast and the phase of the moon, and find a nice, dark location away from light pollution for the best results.
Apr 14, 2017 Tutorials

Wide Angle Portraits: A Study in Creativity

Breaking the Rules can be Rewarding

"Explore the world of wide-angle portraiture from a creative perspective with this tutorial. Learn about the definitions of wide-angle and portrait and how to expand your image of the word 'portrait.' Get tips on how to use a rectilinear lens like the Irix 15mm f/2.4 to create unique and fun portraits. Discover how to tell a story with your portraits by including the environment. Enhance your portrait photography skills today!"
Apr 13, 2017 Tutorials

5 Ways NOT to Use a Wide-Angle Lens

Common Wide Angle Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Learn how to use a wide-angle lens to create outstanding images with these tips! Discover why shooting wide isn't enough and how to avoid common mistakes like shooting without a strong focal point, staying too far away from subjects, including overpowering backgrounds, and creating flat images that lack depth. Get inspired with examples of how to use your Irix 15mm lens to capture stunning landscapes and more.
Mar 16, 2017 News

Irix Lenses Continue to Make Their Mark in the US

These Lenses are Finally Available Here and You Want One

Looking for high-quality camera lenses without breaking the bank? Look no further than Irix! Developed by TH Swiss, Irix lenses deliver top-notch performance at a reasonable price. And now, you can get your hands on them in the USA at top photography retailers B&H and Adorama. With manual focusing, but full electronic aperture control and metering functions, these lenses provide all the exposure information you need. Plus, with a hyperfocal scale and depth of field scale, manual focusing is a breeze. Don't miss out on the unmatched combination of quality and value - visit Adorama or B&H today!
Mar 15, 2017 Tutorials

Take Another Look at Real Estate Photography

Game-Changing Advice for Taking Property Photos

Learn how to turn property photography into a potentially lucrative occupation, with an average rate of $145 per shoot. You don't need expensive gear, but a wide-angle lens can make all the difference. Consider using the Irix 15mm f/2.4 rectilinear lens for excellent sharpness and convenience. Establishing a territory is crucial to ensure expenses don't eat into your profits. Start by finding agencies and property management companies in your area and expand your services to non-local realtors looking to list properties.
Mar 09, 2017 Tutorials

Wide-Angle Street Photography: a Fresh Perspective on the Urban Scene

Take a Walk on the Wide Side with the Irix 15mm f/2.4

Learn how using a prime lens with a short focal length, such as 15mm, can provide advantages for street photography that are often overlooked. With a wider field of view and lower magnification, you can capture a more immersive sense of the environment and open up interiors. Engaging with your subjects and working harder for the shot can also lead to more creative and rewarding results. See examples of these techniques in action on 500px.com.
Mar 08, 2017 News

An Early Video Review of the Irix 11mm f/4.0 Firefly Lens

Christopher Frost takes a look at our newest lens

Discover the performance of the new Irix 11mm lens with Christopher Frost's video review. Get side-by-side comparisons with Canon's popular super-wide zoom lenses and see how the Irix holds its own at a fraction of the cost. Don't miss its debut at The Photography Show in Birmingham, and visit booth C31 to try it for yourself. Irix - the photographer's dream.
Mar 02, 2017 News

Widen Your Perspective with the NEW Irix 11mm f/4 lens!

There’s a New Lens in Town and it’s Wider than Ever

Introducing the Irix 11mm f/4 lens - the newest ultra wide-angle, rectilinear, manual focus lens designed for DSLR cameras. With a focal length of 11mm and an aperture of f/4, this lens is even wider than its predecessor, the Irix 15mm f/2.4. Available in both Firefly and Blackstone versions, the Irix 11mm boasts a convenient focus lock mechanism, infinity click-stop feature, and user-friendly hyperfocal scale. It also includes weather seals for protection against dust and moisture, making it ideal for harsh weather conditions. The Swiss-designed optics offer minimal barrel distortion at 3.13% and an astonishing diagonal angle of view of 126 degrees, perfect for outdoor and indoor
Feb 24, 2017 Tutorials

What to Look For in a Lens for Star Photography

The Important Features in Glass for Astrophotography

Learn how to become an astrophotographer without breaking the bank. Wide-field astrophotography only requires a DSLR camera, a normal to wide-angle lens, and a solid tripod. Discover the important features to look for in a widefield lens, including field of view, optical quality, maximum aperture, and infinity focusing. With the right equipment, you can capture breathtaking photos of the Milky Way, star trails, and so much more. Start your celestial photography journey today.
Feb 17, 2017 Tutorials

Architectural Photography Part 2: Interior Photography Basics

Learn to Take Better Indoor Photographs

Learn how to take stunning interior photos with this tutorial on photographing architecture. Part 2 covers the essential equipment needed for interior photography, including supplemental lighting, gray cards, and tripods. Discover the importance of using a rectilinear wide-angle lens to capture as much of the interior as possible and avoid barrel distortion in post-processing. Learn how to deal with mixed lighting situations and unbalanced colors by using different white balance settings or fill flash. Improve your photography skills and capture beautiful interiors for hotels, resorts, real estate, and more.
Feb 14, 2017 Tutorials

How to Choose the Best Lens for Landscape Photography

What to Look for in Glass for Your Scenic Shots

Learn how to choose the perfect lens for your landscape photography. Discover the difference between zoom and prime lenses, focal length, and autofocus versus manual focus. Read expert opinions and get a more informed decision on selecting the right lens for your landscape shots. Explore the Irix 15mm f/2.4 lens, perfect for breaking the barrier of barrel distortion and producing high-quality landscape images.
Feb 08, 2017 Tutorials

Shooting Wide-Angle Wedding Photos for Unique Perspectives

How a Wide Angle Lens can Improve Your Wedding Packages

Discover the advantages of using wide-angle lenses in wedding photography. Learn important tips to avoid distortion and create unique compositions. With a shorter focal length, you can capture more of the surroundings while still showing your subjects clearly, adding drama and intimacy to your shots. Using a wide-angle lens also allows you to get closer to your subjects, creating a closer interaction and adding life to your photos. Get inspired by stunning examples on 500px.com.
Feb 07, 2017 Tutorials

How to Photograph Architecture Part 1: Exteriors

The Basics of Outdoor Architectural Photography

Learn the basics of architectural photography in this two-part tutorial. Capture the beauty of man-made structures from outside with the right equipment, timing, and composition. Discover the versatility of this genre and how it can be displayed in various ways, from fine art to real estate advertising. Recommended equipment includes a DSLR or mirrorless digital camera, wide-angle lens, sturdy tripod, and filters. Composition and framing are also important factors to consider when shooting architecture. Bracketing exposures and saving image files in both RAW and JPEG formats are useful techniques to explore.
Feb 02, 2017 Tutorials

Manual Focus Is Not Your Enemy

Learning to Embrace Photography Without the AF

Discover the benefits of using manual focus in photography. Auto-focus systems can limit your creative control and cause focusing errors in certain situations, such as shooting through transparent objects. Using manual focus allows you to take control of the focusing distance and depth of field, resulting in more creative and precise shots. Explore the advantages of using manual focus with Irix lenses.
Jan 28, 2017 Tutorials

A Comprehensive Guide to Photograph the Milky Way

Take spectacular, rewarding photos of the stars and our galaxy.

Learn how to photograph the Milky Way with basic equipment and knowledge. All you need is an SLR camera with manual exposure mode, a fast, medium to wide-angle lens with manual focus capability, a sturdy tripod, a remote shutter release, and proper night gear. Preparations for Photographing the Milky Way include charging your batteries and checking for factors that can affect the outcome. To capture the beauty of the night sky, set up your camera and tripod, preset everything you can, and shoot RAW. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the experience before getting started.
Jan 27, 2017 News

Comparison: Irix 15mm vs Samyang 14mm

Summary: Irix has set a very high benchmark

Comparison between the Irix 15mm f/2.4 Blackstone and the Rokinon (Samyang) 14mm T3.1 VDSLR IF ED AS UMC lenses is analyzed in this article. The author, a landscape photographer, reviews the lenses based on their optical aspects and speed. The physical differences between the two lenses are also compared, including volume and weight. The Irix lens is bulkier and heavier than the Samyang, but the difference in weight is not significant. The article includes photographs taken with both lenses and aims to help readers draw their own conclusions.
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