W Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 hotel brands, today announces its new global series, Hotel Tales. Shot in an editorial-documentary style, the series reveals the untold stories and epic moments that can happen only at W Hotels. Written by Hacks (MAX) writer and comedian Pat Regan, each guest’s stay immerses viewers in their individual W Hotels experiences with the one-of-a-kind vibe of ‘you just had to be there’ and extending the invitation of ‘next time, be there’ for guests to experience firsthand.

We’re not quite ready to say goodbye to this dramatic paint trend

If you’re under the impression that a high-end camera is required for fast and precise focus, well, think again, because we’re going to dispel that common excuse in the next 10 minutes. The good news is that you can achieve super sharp photos with whatever camera you own by using the pro techniques demonstrated below.

The bad news is the out-of-focus shots that disappointed you in the past can no longer be blamed on your camera because “operator failure” is likely the real culprit. Instructor Matthew Littlewood is an experienced adventure photographer who shares the powerful techniques he developed during countless photo excursions in the beautiful Canadian Rockies near his home.

Littlewood discusses his preferred focusing techniques that “will ensure you get perfectly sharp images in any conditions.” He also runs through the best way to configure the camera for various situations in the field. And there’s a discussion of how the appropriate aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings contribute to maximum image quality.

The lesson kicks off with an explanation of the different focus modes available in most cameras, how they work, and when to choose one over another. At the most basic level you’ll select either single-shot or continuous autofocus. But there are other options too, and you’re ultimate choice depends upon if you’re making static shots like landscape scenes or subjects in motion.

There are a variety of subtle tricks that can make a bit difference, like how to lock focus distance so the focus point doesn’t shift as you move the camera around to explore various compositions. The number of focus points you use also factors into the equation.

But what if your goal is to create images that are totally sharp—all the way from foreground to infinity? You’ll learn how to do that too by using a powerful technique known as “focus stacking.”

So watch how it’s done, stop making excuses, and capture tack-sharp photos from now on. Then head over to Littlewood’s popular YouTube channel where you’ll find many more shooting and post-processing techniques for improving your skills.

And on a related note, be sure to watch a tutorial we posted earlier, demonstrating how another experienced pro captures outstanding action photographs when shooting with slow shutter speeds.

This tutorial from German Landscape photographer Christian Mohrle is a rare departure from his usual fare because the episode is devoted to image capture rather than post-processing methods. You’ll see some of Mohrle’s amazing photos and learn a variety of shooting techniques that make his work so special.

Mohrle provides seven tips and tricks that are guaranteed to elevate your landscape imagery to the next level, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced photographer. In barely 10 minutes you’ll learn the gear Mohrle prefers for different situations, and several ways to compose a scene for maximum impact.

Knowing how to get the light right is also part of the equation, as is understanding how to employ the concept of scale to add attention-grabbing depth and dimension to every photo you make. Even though most photographers reach for a wide-angle lens when expansive scenes are the task at hand, “in the beginning everyone will struggle to find pleasing compositions with these wider views.”

Mohrle begins with what he considers the most important consideration; namely, the best focal length to use.

Whether you’re shooting with a prime lens or a wide-angle zoom, “there isn’t one magic focal length that can be used in every scenario.” In fact Mohrle explains several reasons why “wider isn’t always better.” In common parlance, a wide-angle lens is one with a focal length of 35mm or wider, and Mohrle discusses why he almost never shoots at 35mm.

Once you select the best lens for the job it’s time to build an eye-catching composition, and this topic represents the balance of today’s 10-minute lesson. In this regard, Mohrle’s refined eye is a one big reason for his success.

So pay close attention to the framing techniques Mohrle describes in detail, follow his advice, and start shooting landscape photos with more visual power than ever before. Then pay a visit to Mohrle’s instructional YouTube channel where there’s much more to learn.

And don’t miss the tutorial we featured recently with another great German outdoor photographer who explains why your autofocus acquisition may be slow or inaccurate and the solutions he recommends for getting things sharp.