Amateur Photographer

Published by Time Inc. (UK) Ltd Amateur Photographer is the world's oldest weekly magazine for photography enthusiasts. With its unique weekly format, it is the first for news and events, plus features on techniques, equipment tests and darkroom advice. It appeals to those interested in buying and learning about digital and film photographic equipment, wanting advice on improving their technique, and learning about the greats in photography. Regular features on reader portfolios, darkroom, digital, black & white and photographer profiles ensure all areas of photography are covered. With an audience of dedicated photography enthusiasts.

Welcome

Sony unveils ZV-E1 full-frame vlog camera

Major firmware updates for Canon EOS R3 and EOS R5

Apples of their eye

Marilyn Stafford documentary award for female photographers is now open

OM Digital Solutions opens new Manufacturing Technology Centre

Major Sigma lens announcement

Scottish nature photographer winners

Portrait of Britain Volume 5 • The annual Portrait of Britain collection is a triumph, as always, finds Amy Davies

It's good to share • Our favourite photos posted by readers on our social media channels this week

30 tips for pin-sharp close-ups • When depth of field is seriously limited, precise focusing is crucial. Thankfully, there are plenty of things you can do to increase your chances of pin-sharp pictures – from making the most of Artificial Intelligence to limiting your range and taping over your AF button

Amateur Photographer of the Year • Here are the top ten images uploaded to Photocrowd from Round One, Black & White, with comments by the AP team and our guest judge

Showcase your talent • Creating a photo book that feels high-end when you have scant design skills can be tricky, but with help from Saal Digital, Tracy Calder has risen to the challenge

Amateur Photographer

Inbox • Write to the Editor at ap.ed@kelsey.co.uk and include your full postal address. Please don’t send letters in the post as there is no one in the office to receive them. Replies are from the Editor unless otherwise stated

Down to the essence • The results of the CUPOTY CHALLENGE, Minimal, are in! The winner and a selection of finalists share their tips and techniques with competition co-founder Tracy Calder

A different view • There’s more to close-up photography than flowers and insects, says Tracy Calder. Four photographers share how they retain an open mind, and a sense of play, when shooting everyday subjects

Closer than close • Strange new worlds are revealed under a microscope. Amy Davies talks to three photographers taking macro photography to the next level

Slime Moulds (Myxomycetes) • Eagle-eyed Barry Webb notices the ethereal beauty of tiny subjects. Tracy Calder hears the story behind one of his award-winning pictures

Editing software for close-up and macro photography • If you’re looking for pin-sharp close-ups, free of noise and professionally polished, you need to use editing software that is up to the job. Tracy Calder finds out what the pros prefer

Best smartphones for macro • Sometimes you don’t need specialist equipment for close-ups; modern smartphones are very capable when it comes to macro, says Amy Davies

Amateur Photographer of the Year • Your chance to enter the UK’s most prestigious com petition for amateur photographers

Readers’ favourite macro kit • We asked you to name your favourite piece of kit that you use for macro photography. Here’s a selection

OM System M.Zuiko ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO • For extreme close-ups, this Micro Four Thirds lens is superb. Amy Davies discovers more

Samyang AF 75mm F1.8 X • This short telephoto prime is a lovely...