Tag Archives: Asian Photography

August 2025

Asian Photography Magazine August 2025 Issue is out!

In this issue, explore:

~ Credibility is the Core Quality of Photojournalism – Arko Datta
~ Iconic Photojournalism Moments that Changed History
~ The Role of Drones & Remote Cameras in Modern Photojournalism
~ Freelance Photojournalists and the Gig Economy: The Price of Independence

The Ever Evolving Lens of Truth

There no doubt that the world today has reached a saturation point, from AI or image manipulation, or visuals that can be misleading. But one profession that still stands the virtue of time is Photojournalism. Even today it continues to stand tall – not just as a form of storytelling, but as a vehicle for truth, emotion and impact. And in this issue, we pay homage to that
artform. In our Pro Profile section, we pay homage to the craft of one of India’s finest and most iconic names in the field – Arko Datta in an exclusive interview. His lens has captured moments that words could never fully express – raw, haunting and real.

From the grainy black-and-white frames of war zones to the high-definition aerial views captured by drones, photojournalism has evolved dramatically. The tools have changed, but the mission remains the same – to witness and share. Today, drone technology offers a bird’s-eye view of conflict zones, climate disasters and protests, adding new layers of context and storytelling.

Social media has also changed the game, allowing photojournalists to instantly share their work, build audiences and push boundaries beyond traditional publications. Yet, amid this evolution, the heart of photojournalism remains unchanged – its ability to stop time, ignite dialogue and challenge the status quo.

Arko Datta shares not just his journey, but also reflections on what makes an image unforgettable – composition, timing and above all, empathy.

For aspiring freelance photojournalists, the landscape is both promising and challenging. It’s no
longer enough to just take a great photo – you need to understand platforms, pitch effectively,
and often, brand yourself. Diversifying income through stock photography, digital publications,
grants, exhibitions and even workshops can open sustainable paths.

In this issue, we explore not just the legacy, but also the future of photojournalism. Through the
eyes of legends and the tools of tomorrow, we celebrate a profession that continues to risk,
reveal and remind us of the power of a single frame.

So, Until Next Time…
Happy Reading!!

July 2025

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Asian Photography Magazine July 2025 Issue is out!

Cover by: Kristine Zula

In this issue, explore:

~ Arachnid Aesthetics – Christian Brockes
~ Capturing Floral Fascination – Kristine Zula
~ Miniature Marvels – Sandip Guha
~ Decay Diaries: Discovering the Beauty of Rot, Rust, and Ruin Through Macro
~ Where Does Macro End and Micro Begin?

Small Scale, Big Stories

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Every year around this time, we turn our focus to the world of Macro – a realm that might seem unremarkable from a distance but, upon closer inspection, reveals a breathtaking tapestry of detail and wonder. These tiny marvels hold the power to mesmerize, but they also bring their share of challenges. For those unfamiliar, venturing into macro photography can feel daunting.

With this issue, we aim to demystify that perception through insightful articles, expert perspectives and practical tips to help make the world of macro more accessible.

In our Pro Profile section, we speak with Christian Brockes, who explores the techniques, patience, and passion behind documenting insect life. Kristine from macro.viewpoint shares how macro photography has shaped her creative journey and deepened her connection with nature and mindfulness. Closer to home, Sandip Guha offers a lens into his precision-driven process, the hardships faced, mistakes made, and the pursuit of that elusive ‘bucket shot.’ Each photographer brings a unique voice to this issue, sure to both inspire and encourage you to explore macro for yourself.

In our Tips section, we explore key themes – like the boundary between macro and micro. Where does one end and the other begin? It’s not just a technical question, but a philosophical one, prompting us to see beauty not only in the grand but also in the minute.

We also discuss macro ethics – a crucial conversation, especially relevant to today’s world. Ethical storytelling and photography extend beyond journalism. In macro, it raises questions about our environmental impact, the treatment of living subjects, and our collective responsibility to nature.

One of the more experimental themes we’ve explored is bioluminescence – a striking metaphor for beauty emerging from darkness. In the deepest waters, light exists not in abundance, but in resilience. It’s a reminder that wonder can lie hidden in the shadows – waiting to be noticed.

We’ve skipped a dedicated feature on macro gear this time, since it was covered in depth last year. However, we’ll make that content available on our website for easy reference. And don’t forget – our E-version is now completely free, making it easier than ever to dive into this edition.
Until next time…
Happy Reading!

March 2024 – Celebrating Women Photographers

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In the world of photography, we still see a lot fewer women photographers than men, even though a
lot of women study photography. This makes us wonder why, in a time when people are talking a lot
about making things equal for everyone, women still have a hard time being recognized in photography.
Women face challenges in getting their work shown, published, or even getting certain jobs.
Throughout history, there have been some amazing women photographers who have done great work
and changed the industry. But still, women are not as common in photography as men.
Since March is when we celebrate International Women’s Day, we decided to focus on some incredible
women photographers from all over the world in this Asian Photography Magazine issue. We want to
show you their amazing work, talk about what they have added to photography, the challenges they
faced, and how they succeeded. We hope their stories inspire girls and women who love photography.
We also want everyone else to support and recognise the achievements of women in photography.

From Baku to Beyond – Rena Effendi
Framing Her World – Sanhita Banerjee
Framing New Beginnings – Swara Rane
Lighting Up Lives – Tania Chatterjee
A Lens On New Life – Tarveen Kalsi
Photography’s Role in Unveiling the Past Through Archaeology
A Guide to Street Portrait Photography
The Importance of Colours in Photography
OnePlus 12R vs Redmi Note 13 Pro+ Camera Comparison Test
OnePlus Buds 3 Review

OnePlus Buds 3 Review

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What can be considered as good sound is subjective, but with the slew of phones getting launched in the budget category, earbuds are also a category that has heated up in the past few years. OnePlus, who entered this segment a few years back have had some products that’ve done well in the market, while others that haven’t. They recently launched the OnePlus Buds 3 at a price of ₹5,499, which offers features that aren’t available in this segment. Does it deliver a punch in this segment? Let’s find out.

Design and Specs

**OnePlus Buds 3 – Metallic Grey or Splendid Blue**

The OnePlus Buds 3 are available in Metallic Grey or Splendid Blue, featuring a metal construction with a dual matte plus glossy finish that strikes a balance between style and subtlety. These stem-cell design buds offer IP55 rating for water and dust resistance. Their stems are slightly curved inwards and with the rubberized ear tips, they are comfortable for prolonged periods.

The stems are equipped with capacitive touch controls, allowing users to swipe up or down to adjust the volume, tap once to answer calls or skip tracks, and long-press to switch noise cancellation modes. However, they lack a default gesture for pausing or playing music, which can be customized Bluetooth settings on OnePlus or Oppo devices. The touch controls on the OnePlus Buds 3 are responsive and reliable, although they can be a bit unresponsive at times.

The design of the case is similar to the Pro series and features the OnePlus logo, pairing button and the Type-C charging port at the back. Each bud weighs approximately 5 grams, with the case contributing an additional 40 grams.

In terms of technical specifications, the Buds 3 are equipped with 10.4mm dual drivers and support Bluetooth 5.3, along with the LHDC 5.0 audio codec, in addition to standard SBC and AAC codecs, making them compatible with a wide range of Android and iOS devices. They also feature multiple device pairing and Google’s Fast Pair for a quicker connection process with Android devices.

Sound Quality

The OnePlus Buds 3 offer good audio quality, producing a bass-heavy sound with minimal distortion. There’s no need to turn the volume up high to enjoy the deep sounds. Sometimes, they play the deeper and middle sounds too loudly, but they usually work well with musical instruments and the singing sounds quite balanced. It’s advisable to adjust the EQ settings for a better experience across different types of music.

The microphone quality on the Buds 3 is commendable, providing clear call audio even in outdoor environments. This ensures that conversations are easily understandable by the person on the other end.

In terms of active noise cancellation, the Buds 3 perform satisfactorily for their price range. While audio quality is best with noise cancellation off, turning it on significantly reduces background noise. The transparency mode is also effective, allowing for awareness of surroundings without needing to remove the buds.

The Buds 3 excel in syncing audio and video, including high-bitrate content, and their gaming mode reduces latency for a seamless gaming experience. The feature that pauses and plays audio upon removing and reinserting the buds works smoothly, enhancing user convenience.

Battery

The OnePlus Buds 3 boast remarkable battery performance, delivering around 7.5 hours of playtime with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) enabled. When ANC is turned off, users can enjoy an extra 3 hours of usage. For daily listeners, charging the case once a week suffices. These results are especially notable when using the LHDC codec on OnePlus devices, enhancing the overall listening experience.

Conclusion

For the price of Rs. 5,499 and with offers the OnePlus Buds 3 are a pretty good product. And you can see an improvement in audio quality and tuning as well, indicating that the company is listening to the feedback and also heading in the right direction. Although they haven’t reached perfection yet. The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is effective, the microphone delivers clear sound, the earbuds fit comfortably in the ear, and they boast impressive battery life. We give our thumbs up to the OnePlus Buds 3 and surely recommend them for anyone looking for quality earbuds.

Sony launches Alpha 9 III Camera at ₹5,29,990 in India

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Sony India recently unveiled the Alpha 9 III, a camera incorporating a global shutter system, marking a noteworthy advancement in digital imaging technology. This new model promises to mitigate common photography challenges, such as distortion and blackout during high-speed captures, offering burst speeds up to 120 frames per second.

The device is outfitted with Sony’s cutting-edge autofocus system, capable of executing up to 120 focus calculations per second, and supports flash synchronization at any shooting speed. This combination of features is designed to meet the demands of professional photographers who require precision and reliability to capture fleeting moments.

Mukesh Srivastava, Head of Digital Imaging Business at Sony India, highlighted the camera’s potential to set new standards in photography, emphasizing its ground-breaking 120 fps shooting capability and global shutter technology.

Featuring a 24.6-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and the BIONZ XR image processor, the Alpha 9 III delivers high-speed continuous shooting with autofocus and auto-exposure tracking. This model represents a leap forward in still image performance and video capabilities, ensuring minimal distortion and improved usability for professional environments. Additionally, the camera’s enhanced video functionalities include 4K recording at 120p without crop and 4K at 60p with 6K oversampling, complemented by S-Cinetone colour science for natural skin tones and subject depiction.

The Alpha 9 III has been designed with operability and reliability in mind, featuring an ergonomic grip and optional vertical grip for extended use, a 4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor, and a high-resolution electronic viewfinder to accommodate professional shooting conditions.

Moreover, the camera is equipped to support a high-speed workflow and offers scalability with features like image selection filters, dual media slots for CFexpress Type A and SD cards, and compatibility with professional mobile applications for streamlined content delivery and remote operation.

Priced at ₹5,29,990, the Alpha 9 III will be available from 26th February 2024 at Sony retail outlets and online platforms across India.

Xiaomi Unveils Xiaomi 14 Ultra and Xiaomi 14 in India

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Xiaomi has recently unveiled its latest smartphones, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and Xiaomi 14, marking the debut of its new flagship series in India. The devices, developed in collaboration with Leica, aim to advance Xiaomi’s presence in the realm of mobile photography. Both models are the inaugural smartphones from the brand to operate on Xiaomi’s HyperOS straight from the box.

The launch event highlighted the collaborative efforts between Xiaomi and Leica in enhancing smartphone imaging technologies. According to Anuj Sharma, Chief Marketing Officer at Xiaomi India, the partnership has led to significant advancements in mobile photography, underscored by the introduction of the Xiaomi 14 Series. The new line-up incorporates Leica Summilux optics and a 75mm floating telephoto lens among other features, emphasizing Xiaomi’s commitment to innovation in mobile imaging.

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is presented as the zenith of mobile photography, drawing on design cues from professional cameras. It boasts a 50MP quad-camera array, covering a wide range of focal lengths and supported by a 1-inch image sensor for high dynamic range photography. Additionally, the device enhances videography with 8K video recording capabilities across all cameras and introduces features like a Movie mode for cinematic shooting and a Director mode for multi-camera setups.

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra features a unibody metal structure with nano-tech Vegan Leather, offering enhanced wear resistance. It also sports a Quad Curved Display with 2K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, complemented by Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for an immersive viewing experience.

The Xiaomi 14, while smaller in size, does not compromise on technology or design. It features a high-definition display, a 3D curved back, and is powered by the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform as the Ultra model. The camera system, co-engineered with Leica, includes a primary lens with a custom sensor for superior photography.

Both models incorporate Xiaomi’s Surge battery management system for optimized battery performance. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers rapid wired and wireless charging, while the Xiaomi 14 supports fast charging technologies as well.

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra, equipped with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB storage option, is priced at INR 99,999. Sales for this model are scheduled to start at 12 noon on April 12, 2024. For enthusiasts looking to secure their purchase early, a limited Reserve Edition will be up for booking starting March 11, 2024, at 12 noon, with a reservation fee of INR 9,999. This edition boasts exclusive items such as a limited-edition case and a 67mm filter adapter, among other surprises, with early access sales kicking off on April 8, 2024, available exclusively at Mi.com and Mi Homes.

The Xiaomi 14, offering 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage is available for ₹69,999 and will also be available for an effective price of INR 59,999 after taking into account the INR 5,000 discount on ICICI bank cards, the exchange bonus, and a 24-month no-cost EMI option. This model will be on sale from 12 noon, March 11, 2024, across various platforms including Mi.com, Xiaomi retail stores, Amazon India, and Flipkart.

Xiaomi 14 Series purchasers will enjoy additional benefits such as one free screen replacement within the first six months, a complimentary one-year out-of-warranty repair service covering labor costs, access to a dedicated relationship manager, and a three-month free subscription to YouTube Premium, enhancing the overall user experience and value proposition of these flagship devices.

Vivo V30, V30 Pro launched in India

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Vivo has recently expanded its smartphone line-up in India with the introduction of the V30 and V30 Pro models, highlighting advanced camera capabilities and a slim design. The company announced that these devices, continuing the legacy of the V-Series, offer the thinnest design yet in the series, complemented by a powerful 5000 mAh battery. In a move to enhance the photography experience, Vivo has partnered with ZEISS for the V30 Pro model, aiming to bring professional-grade portrait photography into users’ hands.

The Vivo V30 is available in Andaman Blue, Peacock Green, and Classic Black, with prices starting at ₹33,999 for the 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage variant, and going up to ₹37,999 for the 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage option. The V30 Pro comes in Andaman Blue and Classic Black, priced at ₹41,999 for the 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage model, and ₹46,999 for the 12 GB RAM and 512 GB storage variant. Pre-booking for both devices will start from March 14, 2024, across Flipkart, the Vivo India e-store, and select retail partners.

The V30 series boasts significant improvements in camera technology. The Vivo V30 features a triple camera setup, including a 50MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 50MP group selfie camera with Eye Autofocus. The V30 Pro elevates the camera experience further with a ZEISS co-engineered triple camera system, incorporating a 50 MP professional portrait camera, a 50MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and cinematic video bokeh effects powered by AI. Both models offer a 6.78-inch 3D curved AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, housed in a sleek 7.45 mm body.

Under the hood, the Vivo V30 is powered by a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, while the V30 Pro utilizes a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 SoC, both supported by a 5000 mAh battery with 80W FlashCharge technology. The devices run on FunTouch OS 14 and are promised to receive three generations of Android updates and four years of security updates, ensuring longevity and reliability for users.

With their latest V30 series, Vivo aims to blend style with performance, offering consumers high-end camera capabilities, a refined design, and robust battery life without compromising on the overall user experience.

Nothing Phone 2a launches in India

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Nothing recently launched its third smartphone Nothing 2A. The Nothing Phone 2a distinguishes itself with its MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro SoC processor and an adaptive refresh rate AMOLED display capable of reaching 120Hz. Its design includes a dual 50-megapixel camera setup on the back and boasts an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance.

The smartphone is hitting the market with a starting price of ₹23,999 for the base model, which includes 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Other available variants offer 8GB+256GB and 12GB+256GB, with prices set at ₹25,999 and ₹27,999, respectively. The Phone 2a is available in both White and Black and will be purchasable via Flipkart from March 12. An introductory offer allows customers to buy the phone at a reduced price of ₹19,999 on the day of the launch. Additional incentives include a ₹2,000 cashback for HDFC bank card purchases and an extra ₹2,000 off on exchange deals, with no-cost EMI options available for up to nine months.

In terms of specifications, the Nothing Phone 2a operates on an Android 14-based Nothing OS 2.5 and is promised three years of Android updates along with four years of security patches. The device features a 6.7-inch full-HD+ AMOLED display with HDR10+ support, safeguarded by Corning Gorilla Glass 5. It is powered by an octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro SoC, accompanied by up to 12GB of RAM. The smartphone’s dual-camera system and a 32-megapixel front camera are among its highlighted features.

For storage, options extend up to 256GB, and connectivity features include 5G and Wi-Fi 6, among others. The phone is equipped with an array of sensors and supports both fingerprint unlocking and face unlock authentication. Its battery capacity is 5,000mAh, supporting 45W fast charging, an improvement over its predecessors. The device also continues the brand’s distinctive Glyph Interface, allowing users to customize LED notification patterns on the phone’s rear, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

HP introduces New Compact Printer Series for Small Businesses

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HP recently unveiled the Colour LaserJet Pro 3000 series, aiming to equip small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with high-quality printing solutions. The series is noted for its compact size, energy-efficient features, and the implementation of HP’s TerraJet toner technology, which promises enhanced colour quality and speed.

The demand for efficient and reliable printing solutions remains strong among SMBs, with many indicating a preference for a combination of digital and physical materials. The Color LaserJet Pro 3000 series is designed to meet this need, offering vibrant colour prints and professional speed in a space-saving design.

Aurelio Maruggi, division president of Office Print Solutions at HP, highlighted the importance of adaptable, high-performance printing solutions in today’s hybrid work environments. The Color LaserJet Pro 3000 series is presented as a solution that supports the dynamic needs of growing businesses, providing cost savings, security, and ease of management.

Key features of the new printer series include Wi-Fi connectivity that ensures consistent online access, class-leading print speeds, high-quality output, and advanced security measures. It also boasts the smallest footprint in its category.

TerraJet toner technology is a cornerstone of the new series, delivering 11% more vivid colours and 18% faster print speeds. It also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing energy consumption by up to 27% and cutting down plastic use in toner cartridges by up to 28%.

HP’s A3 and A4 printer offerings, including the new Color LaserJet Pro 3000 series, have been revamped for the modern office, emphasizing flexibility and consistency across various business scales. The company’s efforts were recently acknowledged with the A4 Line of the Year award from Keypoint Intelligence, reflecting excellence in reliability, value, usability, image quality, and speed.

The Color LaserJet Pro 3000 series is slated for release in May 2024, with availability and pricing details to be announced regionally.

Nikon Acquires Cinema Camera Manufacturer RED

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In a significant move for the film and photography industry, Nikon has announced its acquisition of RED, an American company known for its high-quality digital cinema cameras. This acquisition marks a notable expansion for the Japanese camera giant, allowing it to incorporate RED’s advanced cinema technology into its offerings.

RED, headquartered in Foothill Ranch, California, and founded in 2005 by Oakley founder Jim Jannard, has been a prominent player in the digital cinema industry. The company has over 200 employees and has made a name for itself with innovations that have pushed the boundaries of film technology. Notably, RED introduced the world to 4K resolution filming with its RED ONE camera in 2007, setting a new standard in the industry.

The acquisition gives Nikon access to RED’s esteemed product line, including the RED One 4K and V-Raptor X cameras, along with pioneering image compression and colour science technologies that have contributed to the success of numerous acclaimed films and television shows.

RED’s technologies have continually evolved to meet the demanding needs of filmmakers, earning the brand a preferred status among professional cinematographers worldwide. The merger is expected to bring together the strengths of both companies, promising advancements in digital cinema and photography technology.

Despite a history of legal disputes between Nikon and RED over patent infringement allegations, the two companies have moved past their differences, seeing a shared future in technological innovation. RED’s president, Jarred Land, expressed optimism about the merger on social media, suggesting a collaborative path forward aimed at reshaping the professional digital cinema camera market.

The acquisition comes after RED’s attempt to enter the smartphone market in 2018 with a holographically capable device, a venture that faced criticism and did not achieve commercial success. Nonetheless, this move demonstrated RED’s willingness to explore new technological frontiers, a spirit Nikon seems eager to embrace as the companies embark on this new chapter together.